Soaking rain, gusty winds looming in N.J. this weekend before cold air sweeps in

New Jersey residents can expect quiet conditions Thursday night before a warm front lifts northward, bringing increasing clouds and a chance of rain showers by Friday afternoon.

Temperatures are forecast to rise 10 to 15 degrees above normal, reaching the mid-50s, as a precursor to a wet start to the weekend.

The first round of precipitation is expected to arrive late Friday afternoon into the early evening hours. While rainfall is generally expected to be light during this initial phase, there could be an isolated rumble of thunder, according to forecasters from the National Weather Service.

A cold front will pass through the region overnight, likely creating a lull in the rain showers before the next system arrives.

More widespread rainfall is forecast to return Saturday afternoon and evening as low pressure tracks across the area. During this time, rain could become heavy at times.

Rainfall totals between a half inch and 1.5 inches are predicted across New Jersey through Saturday night. Despite the anticipated volume of water, forecasters say flooding risks should be minimal to none.

Due to the recent stretch of mild temperatures, there is no concern regarding ice jams or river ice hindering runoff.

There is some uncertainty in the forecast regarding specific temperatures and wind speeds for Saturday, the weather service said.

Conditions will change significantly on Sunday as a secondary cold front moves through the region, forecasters said. As the rain clears, strong cold air advection will result in a breezy day, with west to northwest wind gusts peaking in the 30 to 40 mph range.

Temperatures will drop throughout the day, falling into the 20s for most of the area by Sunday night.

Looking ahead to the start of the work week, high pressure will build over the region, bringing dry conditions. Monday and Tuesday are expected to feature clear skies and temperatures near normal for January.

By Tuesday and Wednesday, return flow will develop as high pressure moves off the coast, helping temperatures moderate to about 5 degrees above normal.

No significant weather impacts are expected from Monday through next Thursday.

Current weather radar