Snow squall threat, up to 55 mph wind gusts in N.J. forecast. Latest updates.

A strong cold front is expected to hit New Jersey Wednesday night into Thursday with snow showers that could include dangerous snow squalls as winds gust up to 55 mph.
While snowfall totals should be less than 1 inch for most of the state, Thursday morning’s commute could be slick and squalls could cause brief whiteout conditions with reduced visibility, according to the latest forecasts.
A wind advisory will be in effect from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday for all of New Jersey as west winds of 25 to 35 mph are expected to gust from 45 to 55 mph, the National Weather Service said.
“Winds will howl Thursday afternoon and evening in the Northeast,” AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist John Feerick said.
Scattered power outages are possible.
“Tree damage and isolated power outages are possible,” the National Weather Service said early Wednesday. “Take the time today to secure an lose outdoor items such as trash cans, holiday decorations, patio furniture, etc.
While areas north of Interstate 78 could see a “brief dusting” of snow, a mix of rain and snow is expected in the central parts of the state, the weather service said in its morning forecast discussion.
South Jersey is likely to receive rain in the morning before precipitation winds down everywhere by about noon.
Temperatures on Thursday will be at their highest during the morning — the mid 30s to low 40s — before falling through the afternoon when the sun might make an appearance.
Thursday night will be chilly and windy with lows falling into the 20s and even lower wind chill values. Friday will also be sunny and cold with brisk winds. Highs will only be in the 30s.
By Saturday, the winds diminish but most of New Jersey won’t even make to a high temperature of 40 degrees under sunny skies.
We warm up a bit on a sunny Sunday with highs in the mid-to-upper 40s.
On Wednesday, we’ll have some sun early in the day before clouds increase this afternoon. A high of around 40 is likely.
Normal temps in early December range from the low 30s to upper 40s.
All of New Jersey remains under severe or extreme drought conditions, according to the most recent update from the U.S. Drought Monitor last week.
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Jeff Goldman may be reached at [email protected].