01/12/2025
The first significant winter storm of the season will affect our area on Tuesday, with accumulating snows likely north and west of the major cities.
The higher elevations of the Poconos and far northwestern New Jersey should remain all snow; however, a changeover to a wintry mix and then rain is expected across most of Hunterdon County and points south and east of the Lehigh Valley.
Overall Storm Setup
An area of low pressure developing across the southeastern states today will track northeast along the Mid-Atlantic coast on Tuesday. This system is forecast to undergo rapid intensification (bombogenesis), producing widespread precipitation across the region.
With marginal cold air in place, the potential for snow in Hunterdon County depends heavily on timing. Current model trends showing an earlier onset tonight favor a period of wet snow before warmer air aloft forces a changeover to sleet and eventually rain.
Timing Things Out
Precipitation will overspread the area from west to east later tonight into early Tuesday morning. Initially, the rain/snow line should set up near the I-95 corridor before daybreak Tuesday, then lift northwest toward I-78 through mid-morning, and push into portions of the Lehigh Valley and northwestern New Jersey by early afternoon. Note: Timing is subject to change.
In and around the Hunterdon County area, look for a few hours of wet snow overnight into Tuesday morning, producing light accumulations on cold/grassy surfaces. A brief period of sleet is possible during the transition, before a switch to plain rain by mid-late morning.
Once rain takes over, it may fall heavily at times from late morning through-mid-afternoon. Rainfall totals of 0.50” – 1.00” are expected. Rain should taper to shower late Tuesday, with conditions drying out overnight.
Travel Impacts
For the most part, this should be a manageable event in Hunterdon County. Some slick spots are possible on untreated roadways and bridges early Tuesday morning, but conditions should improve after the changeover to rain. Heavy rain and melting snow may lead to ponding and minor hydroplaning issues through the afternoon and evening commutes.
After the rain ends Tuesday night, temperatures will drop into the mid-20s, allowing any residual water or slush to refreeze — creating a risk of black ice, particularly on secondary roads and bridges Wednesday morning.
Bottom line for Hunterdon County: A quick taste of winter overnight, followed by a sloppy, wet Tuesday.
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