New Jersey, NJ – As New Jersey transitions from the Labor Day weekend back to work and school, residents can expect the continuation of pleasant weather with a warming trend heading into the week. Following an extended stretch of cool, crisp mornings and mostly sunny days, upcoming forecasts indicate a return to more summerlike conditions by week’s end, accompanied by a couple of opportunities for limited but much-needed rainfall.
A Comfortable Start to the Week with Cool Mornings and Mild Afternoons
Tuesday marks the eighth consecutive morning where widespread 50s were observed across New Jersey, signaling a truly cool and refreshing start to the day. The skies will mostly remain clear with a few clouds, allowing for a pleasant end to the day. Coastal communities will experience somewhat cooler temperatures, with highs near 70 degrees, thanks to a gentle ocean breeze. Inland areas will warm slightly more, reaching the mid 70s, which remains slightly below the normal temperature for early September.
- Chance of a slight sprinkle mainly in the southern and eastern parts of the state on Tuesday, but most areas remain dry.
- Tuesday night expected to be clear and cool with lows in the upper 50s.
Wednesday Brings More of the Same Pleasant Weather
Residents can look forward to another day of partly sunny skies on Wednesday, with temperatures edging up slightly into the upper 70s to around 80 degrees. The mild afternoons contrasted by cool mornings may pose some dressing challenges, but the weather remains inviting and enjoyable.
Thursday: Warming Up with a Patchy Evening Shower Chance
Thursday will deliver a notable warmup in New Jersey, with daytime highs soaring into the lower 80s — a temperature that more closely resembles classic early September summer-like days. Expect a mix of sun and clouds and a brisk southerly breeze fostering a hint of humidity as the day progresses.
While Thursday’s daytime hours are expected to be dry, a round of showers and thunderstorms is forecasted to arrive from the west in the evening. These showers may be healthy at first but are likely to become less intense and more isolated as they progress southeastward. Rainfall totals will be light, generally ranging from a few hundredths of an inch up to a quarter-inch.
Friday’s Summertime Warmth and Possible Pop-up Storms
Continuing the warming trend, Friday will be dominated by warm and fairly humid conditions under mostly sunny skies, with highs reaching the mid 80s. This temperature ushers residents back into typical air conditioning weather and is perfect for enjoying a local summer beach trip. While the forecast currently leans toward dry weather, a pop-up thunderstorm remains a possibility due to the warm, moist atmosphere.
Weekend Weather: Warm Start with a Cold Front Arrival
The first full weekend of September offers mixed weather but maintains a generally pleasant and dry feel. Saturday will remain warm and humid, with temperatures once again climbing into the 80s. A slow-moving cold front will bring some opportunities for rain in the early and later parts of the day, though it is not expected to be widespread or continuous.
Sunday will finally usher in a cooler, drier air mass shifting the mercury back down to the 70s. Sunrise will be crisp again with dew points dropping to around 40, marking the return of cool mornings and refreshing days.
Important Context on Dry Conditions and Rainfall Needs
New Jersey has experienced almost two weeks with minimal precipitation, and about 40 percent of the state is now categorized as “Abnormally Dry.” The rainfall expected later this week will provide some relief but is unlikely to overhaul the dry conditions significantly. Notably, the tropical Atlantic remains quiet even approaching the climatological peak of hurricane season.
“We do need to see a good soaking soon. About 40 percent of New Jersey is now in the ‘Abnormally Dry’ category — and that figure will only go up until wet weather returns,” said Dan Zarrow, Chief Meteorologist for Townsquare Media New Jersey.
Back to School Humor from NJ DOT
As students return to classrooms, the New Jersey Department of Transportation has injected some humor into the daily commute with creative messages displayed on electronic highway signs. Drivers are encouraged to safely capture and share these messages for a dose of lightheartedness during busy travel times.
Explore New Jersey’s Stunning Sunflower Spots This Fall
Alongside weather updates, New Jersey residents and visitors can brighten their autumn with visits to some of the state’s most beautiful sunflower fields. From the historic Dalton Farms in Gloucester County to the original sunflower maze in Sussex County, many farms offer unique experiences such as hayrides, pick-your-own flowers, and fall festivals.
- Dalton Farms (Gloucester County): Hosts Tri State Sunflower Festival and Pumpkin Fest Sept. 6 – Oct. 26 with live music, corn mazes, and more.
- Holland Ridge Farms (Monmouth County): Features a variety of flowers and a fall festival from Sept. 12 through Oct. 13.
- Timberline Farms (Atlantic County): Offers the only 2-acre U-pick sunflower field certified as a wildlife habitat; open by reservation.
- Sussex County Sunflower Maze: Celebrates its 14th anniversary and features over 1 million blooms and intricate maze designs.
- Additional locations include Happy Day Farm, Von Thun Farms, Johnson’s Corner Farm, Alstede Farms, and Clark Farms.
These farms provide perfect outdoor family activities and photo opportunities amid New Jersey’s gorgeous autumn scenery.