Sat Dec 27 10:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article:
Summary:
A winter storm impacting New Jersey has shifted from primarily snow to a dangerous ice threat, particularly in Hunterdon, Somerset, and northern Mercer counties. While snowfall predictions have been downgraded for some areas, all 21 counties remain under a state of emergency with travel restrictions in place. Freezing rain is the main concern, potentially leading to ice storm conditions. The weekend will see a gradual clearing with cold temperatures. More rain is expected Sunday night, potentially starting as freezing rain in some northern areas. Monday will bring significantly milder temperatures followed by a cold front with strong winds and a return to cold weather for the rest of the week.
News Article:
Ice Threat Looms Over New Jersey as Winter Storm Shifts Focus
TRENTON, NJ – A winter storm that initially threatened New Jersey with heavy snowfall has taken a dangerous turn, with forecasters now warning of significant ice accumulation across the state. All 21 counties remain under a state of emergency, and commercial travel restrictions are in effect since 3 PM Friday, according to state officials.
The National Weather Service issued updated forecasts Friday night, highlighting the increased risk of freezing rain. “We are now starting to get anxious about ice accumulation, since several more hours of freezing rain may put some areas in the game for ice storm warning criteria,” the agency said. While some areas may see sleet and snow, a widespread glaze of ice is now more likely across more than half of the state, with the most dangerous amounts centered around Hunterdon, Somerset, and northern Mercer counties.
Winter storm warnings remain in effect for Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic and Union counties with 4 to 8 inches of snow expected. However, earlier winter storm warnings have been downgraded to winter weather advisories for Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Sussex and Warren counties due to lower-than-expected snowfall.
The shift in forecast is attributed to a warm layer of air aloft, causing precipitation to change to sleet and freezing rain, particularly south of Interstate 78. Despite the revised snowfall projections, officials are warning of significant travel disruptions.
The precipitation is expected to taper off Saturday morning, with temperatures struggling to reach the 30s. Sunday will offer a brief respite with tranquil conditions, though temperatures will remain cold. More rain is possible late Sunday, with northern areas potentially experiencing a period of freezing rain before temperatures rise.
A significant warm-up is expected on Monday, with highs in the 50s. However, a strong cold front will sweep through, bringing strong winds and a sharp drop in temperatures. Gusts could exceed 40 mph.
The remainder of the week will be marked by cold conditions, with highs mostly in the 30s and lows in the teens and 20s. Strong winds are expected to continue into Tuesday.
Residents are urged to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel as the threat of hazardous ice conditions continues. Stay tuned to local weather reports for the latest updates.
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