A lake effect snow band (yes, you heard us right) set up this evening over portions of Northern and Northeast New Jersey, streaming southeast with moisture from the Great Lakes well to our northwest. The "streamers" as they are commonly referred to, tend to sit over specific areas for some extended periods of time, although they fluctuate much more in our area due to the distance from the moisture source. The lake effect snow band over Northeast New Jersey is producing light snow at this hour, and this is expected to continue for the next few hours. Areas of slick roads and light accumulation have been reported in the areas underneath the snow band--suggesting that you may want to take some precaution if traveling overnight. The early morning commute could also be a bit slick in these areas. As far as the rest of today, including the afternoon and evening, expect more of the same. A chance of snow showers will prevail throughout the day, with partly to mostly cloudy conditions early, with some clearing possible later in the day. West winds at 15 to 20 miles per hour and the cloud cover will keep temperatures in the low 30's for high's, and it will certainly feel like the heart of winter even at mid day. Featured image: Radar image from 1am Tuesday morning, December 7th, 2010 showing the lake effect snow bands over Northeast New Jersey.

The Forecast

Today (Tuesday): Partly to mostly cloudy and very cold, with a chance of snow showers. High temperature near 34. West winds at 15 to 20 miles per hour. Chance of precipitation is 30 %.

Tonight (Tuesday Night): Partly to mostly cloudy and cold. Low near 23. West winds at 10 to 15 miles per hour.

Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with daytime highs near 36. West winds at 5 to 10 miles per hour.

Article by John Homenuk. 12:57am December 7th, 2010 Need more? See New York Metro Weather's Long Range Forecast for the upcoming work week, or view our Technical Forecast Discussion for the more serious weather enthusiasts. For up to the minute details on forecasts, watches, warnings, and alerts, follow us on Twitter and Facebook.