NEW JERSEY — New Jersey residents should prepare for a dramatic change in weather as a developing coastal storm moves toward the region, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds and a blast of November cold.

The storm is expected to strengthen off the Mid-Atlantic coast Thursday into Friday, potentially developing into a nor’easter. While widespread snowfall is not expected across New Jersey, forecasters say some communities in the northwestern part of the state could see rain mix with wet snow as colder air moves in.

According to the National Weather Service, the highest potential for snow is across elevated areas, particularly near the Poconos and northwestern New Jersey. Any accumulation in New Jersey is expected to be minimal, with most locations seeing rain.

Heavy Rain Could Impact Thursday’s Commute

Rain is expected to spread across the Garden State Thursday, with periods of heavier precipitation possible throughout the day and into Thursday night.

Some areas could also experience isolated thunderstorms as the storm develops.

The National Weather Service is monitoring the storm’s track, which will determine how much rain falls across different parts of the state and whether coastal communities experience additional impacts.

Could New Jersey See Its First Snowflakes?

The possibility of snow will increase as colder air moves into the region Thursday night and Friday.

Higher elevations in northwestern New Jersey have the best chance of seeing a rain-and-snow mix. Some elevated communities could experience a few wet snowflakes, although significant accumulation is not currently expected.

Residents closer to the Interstate 95 corridor and lower elevations should expect primarily rain.

Temperatures Set To Take A Dramatic Drop

Behind the storm, temperatures will fall sharply.

Friday and Saturday could feature daytime temperatures stuck in the 40s across much of the state, while overnight lows may drop into the 20s and low 30s.

The colder conditions could bring an end to the growing season in parts of southern New Jersey where it remains active.

Strong Winds And Possible Coastal Flooding

The developing nor’easter could also bring stronger winds, particularly along the Jersey Shore.

Forecasters are watching for possible tidal flooding and stronger coastal wind gusts as the storm moves offshore. The extent of these impacts will depend on the storm’s final track.

Winds are expected to remain breezy to windy into the weekend, making temperatures feel even colder.

What Happens This Weekend?

Conditions should gradually improve after the storm moves away, but the colder-than-normal weather is expected to stick around.

Saturday will bring a mix of clouds and sunshine, with temperatures remaining in the 40s. Sunday and Monday should see some moderation, although temperatures are expected to remain below seasonal averages.

What New Jersey Residents Should Know

• Thursday: Rain develops across much of the state, with heavier periods possible.
• Thursday night: Continued rain, with colder air beginning to move in.
• Friday: Lingering rain, gusty winds and a possible rain-and-snow mix in higher elevations.
• Saturday: Breezy and cold, with temperatures mainly in the 40s.
• Sunday: Some improvement, but temperatures remain below normal.

Residents should monitor National Weather Service updates as the storm approaches, particularly those living in coastal communities and higher elevations.

For now, New Jersey is more likely to experience a cold, rainy nor’easter than a major snowstorm. However, the changing forecast means residents should keep an eye on conditions through Friday. Check your local forecast.