Freeze Watch Issued for Most of New Jersey

Rain, much colder temperatures expected to sweep through the state on Sunday.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 11:25pm

A vast, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of grey, blue, and white, depicting a frozen, barren field under a heavy, overcast sky, conveying a sense of the overwhelming power and melancholy of nature.The impending freeze watch serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of spring weather in New Jersey, and the need for residents to be prepared to protect their plants and property.Passaic Today

A freeze watch has been issued for 16 of New Jersey's 21 counties starting Monday night, with overnight low temperatures expected to dip into the 20s. The cold front will bring rain showers, gusty winds, and a sharp drop in temperatures, with highs only reaching the 40s and 50s on Monday. The freeze is particularly concerning for the state's growing season, which is already underway.

Why it matters

New Jersey's spring growing season is in full swing, making the impending freeze a significant threat to plants and gardens across the state. The sudden drop in temperatures could damage or kill sensitive vegetation if proper precautions are not taken.

The details

The freeze watch will be in effect from Monday night through Tuesday morning, with the National Weather Service warning of overnight low temperatures in the 20s. Rain showers are expected to move through the state on Sunday, bringing up to a half-inch of rainfall. Sunday's high temperatures will occur early in the day before sharply falling behind the cold front, with some areas seeing temperatures 20 degrees colder than Saturday. Gusty winds of up to 20 mph will make it feel even colder.

  • The freeze watch will be in effect from Monday night through Tuesday morning.
  • Rain showers are expected to move through the state on Sunday.
  • Sunday's high temperatures will occur early in the day before sharply falling behind the cold front.
  • High temperatures on Monday will only reach the 40s and 50s, which is several degrees below average for mid-April.
  • Temperatures are expected to climb back above average by Wednesday and continue warming through Friday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related watches, warnings, and advisories.

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What’s next

Residents are advised to take steps to protect sensitive plants and vegetation from the impending freeze, such as covering or bringing them indoors.

The takeaway

This sudden cold snap is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of spring weather in New Jersey, and the importance of being prepared for rapid changes in temperature and conditions. Gardeners and homeowners should closely monitor the forecast and take appropriate measures to safeguard their plants and property.