Snow squall threat increases with 45 mph wind gusts forecast today

The National Weather Service says snow squalls and isolated snow showers are possible Sunday afternoon across New Jersey with wind gusts up to 45 mph, and forecasters are tracking a potential coastal storm later in the week.

Snow squalls and gusty winds are possible Sunday afternoon across New Jersey, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters said confidence in the snow squall potential has increased, especially for counties along and north of the I-95 corridor. A secondary cold front is expected to pass through between about 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., with winds increasing behind the front. Surface temperatures are expected to remain above freezing for much of the afternoon, but precipitation could lower temperatures enough to support snow showers and squalls. What officials reported: - The National Weather Service said rain/snow showers and possibly snow squalls are possible between about 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday. - Winds will increase behind the front, with gusts up to 45 mph possible this afternoon. - Surface temperatures are expected to be above freezing for much of the afternoon, though precipitation could lower temperatures enough for snow showers and squalls. - Significant accumulation is not expected, but snow squalls can briefly reduce visibility and leave a quick coating on roads. - Forecasters are tracking a potential coastal storm for Thursday into Friday, and they reported low confidence with wide differences among forecast models. Summary: The immediate situation calls for attention to brief, localized snow squalls and gusty winds Sunday afternoon, with only light accumulations expected. Forecasters will continue to monitor guidance through the week for a possible coastal storm later Thursday into Friday, but the timing, track and strength remain undetermined at this time.