Newark, NJ – As the busy Black Friday week continues, weather officials are alerting Newark residents to prepare their homes for a sharp temperature decline expected to hit New Jersey over the weekend.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that this winter may bring more dramatic temperature swings than usual due to La Niña, a climate pattern known for creating sudden shifts between mild daytime highs and freezing nighttime lows. For homeowners across Essex County, these fluctuations can significantly increase the likelihood of burst pipes, ice accumulation, and heating system stress, especially in older homes and multi-unit buildings common in the area. According to early forecasts, overnight temperatures in Newark, Jersey City, and Paterson may drop into the upper 20s by late Friday into early Saturday.
Homeowners Urged to Begin Winterization Immediately
Local home maintenance experts recommend that residents begin with the most critical winterizing steps before temperatures plummet. Specialists emphasize insulating exposed pipes in basements, garages, attics, and crawl spaces—areas that are most vulnerable to freezing conditions. Even short periods of cold can cause expansion inside pipes, leading to costly and severe water damage once they thaw.
According to guidance from the National Weather Service, homeowners should also remove debris from gutters and check rooftop drainage, since early-season ice dams can form quickly in New Jersey’s unpredictable climate. Ice dams can cause roof leaks, threaten structural integrity, and lead to mold growth if not addressed early in the season.
La Niña’s Impact on New Jersey Weather
Meteorologists say this year’s La Niña pattern is likely to bring larger fluctuations between warm afternoons and frigid nights…