A late-week storm could bring rain and possibly the season’s first snowflakes to parts of New Jersey, but significant accumulation is not expected.

NEW JERSEY — Residents across the Garden State may get their first glimpse of winter weather later this week as a developing storm system moves toward the region.

According to the latest National Weather Service forecast, an area of low pressure is expected to bring rain to New Jersey beginning Thursday. As temperatures drop Friday, some areas could see rain mix with or change over to wet snow.

The greatest chance for snowflakes will be across the Poconos and northwestern New Jersey, particularly Friday and Friday night. However, forecasters currently expect little to no accumulation.

A few wet snowflakes cannot be ruled out farther south and east, potentially reaching areas near the Interstate 95 corridor, although accumulating snow in those locations appears even less likely.

Mild Weather Before the Storm

Before the unsettled weather arrives, New Jersey is expected to experience seasonably cool and mostly dry conditions through Wednesday.

Monday will bring breezy conditions, with northwest wind gusts reaching approximately 25 to 35 mph in some areas. High temperatures will generally reach the upper 50s to around 60 degrees.

Tuesday and Wednesday should offer a mix of sunshine and clouds, with temperatures climbing into the lower to middle 60s in many locations.

When Could Rain and Snow Arrive?

Rain chances are expected to increase Thursday afternoon, with steadier precipitation possible Thursday night into Friday.

Here’s what residents can expect across the state:

• North Jersey: Rain is expected Thursday, with a possibility of wet snow mixing in Friday or Friday night, especially in higher elevations.
• Central Jersey: Periods of rain are likely Thursday night and Friday. Temperatures will remain too mild for significant snowfall.
• South Jersey: Rain is expected late Thursday into Friday, with temperatures generally staying above freezing during the daytime.

Will New Jersey See Accumulating Snow?

For now, significant snowfall does not appear likely.

The current forecast suggests that any snowflakes will be mainly confined to higher elevations and northwestern portions of the state. Even in those areas, accumulation is expected to be minimal, if any.

For residents hoping for the first measurable snowfall of the season, this system may offer an early preview of winter rather than a true snow event.

Forecasters will continue monitoring the developing storm, and residents should keep an eye on updated weather forecasts as Thursday and Friday approach.

Stay tuned for additional updates as the storm system moves closer to New Jersey.