Fort Lee NJ Weather Forecast: Why January Always Keeps Us Guessing

If you've spent even one winter in Fort Lee, you know the drill. You wake up, look out the window at the George Washington Bridge, and wonder if you need the heavy parka or just a light layer for that walk to the bus stop. Honestly, the fort lee nj weather forecast is a fickle beast this time of year. One minute it's a crisp, sunny afternoon, and the next, you're dealing with that biting wind coming off the Hudson that makes 33°F feel like a much more aggressive 24°F.

That's exactly where we are today, Thursday, January 15, 2026. It's sunny, sure, but don't let the blue skies fool you into leaving your scarf at home.

The Reality of Today's Forecast

Right now, the mercury is sitting at 33°F. It sounds manageable, but we’re dealing with a west wind kicking at 11 mph. If you’re heading out for a quick bite on Main Street or commuting across the bridge, that wind chill is dragging the "feels like" temperature down to a frosty 24°F.

The humidity is pretty low at 37%, so it’s that dry, stinging kind of cold. On the plus side, there is zero precipitation right now. You don't have to worry about snow or sleet for the immediate afternoon, and the UV index is at a flat zero—typical for a January day in North Jersey.

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Looking ahead at the rest of the day, we’re expecting a high of 44°F. It’s a bit of a tease because as soon as that sun starts to dip, the temperature is going to plummet. Tonight’s low is hitting 25°F under clear skies. If you're planning on being out late, basically expect it to feel like a freezer. Interestingly, there's a 35% chance of some daytime snow flurries mentioned in the local outlook, though the current conditions remain dry for now.

What to Expect for the Rest of the Week

January in Fort Lee is rarely a one-note song. It's usually a chaotic mix of "is it winter?" and "oh, it's definitely winter."

• Friday, Jan 16: Expect things to stay chilly. We’re looking at a high of 34°F and a low of 31°F. It’ll be sunny, but that high is barely above freezing.
• The Weekend Scramble: Saturday (Jan 17) brings a 50% chance of a "frozen mix." That's the stuff no one likes—not quite snow, not quite rain, just a mess for your windshield. Highs around 38°F.
• Sunday, Jan 18: We might see some actual flakes with a 30% chance of snow and a high of 34°F.

By the time Monday rolls around, the real cold settles in. We're talking highs of 33°F and lows crashing down to 15°F. If you haven't checked your tire pressure or the salt supply in your garage, this weekend is probably your last chance to do it before the deep freeze hits on Tuesday, where the high is only predicted to be 19°F.

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Why the Bridge Changes Everything

Living so close to the water and the GWB creates a microclimate that most generic weather apps struggle to capture. The wind coming through the Palisades can be significantly stronger than what you'll find just a few miles inland in places like Hackensack.

If you're a commuter, keep an eye on the bridge alerts too. Beyond the fort lee nj weather forecast, the NYC DOT has been reporting full bridge closures overnight for repairs, specifically on Thursdays like tonight. Between 11 pm and 5 am, the bridge is scheduled to be closed, which usually funnels traffic into the local streets. If the weather turns and that 35% chance of snow hits, those local roads are going to be a nightmare.

Practical Steps for Fort Lee Residents

Don't just trust the "high" number on your phone. In Jersey, the wind is the real boss. Here is what you should actually do based on this week's data:

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1. Check the "Feels Like" Daily: Today is a prime example. 33°F is one thing; 24°F is another. Layers are your best friend.
2. Prep for Sleet: With Saturday's 50% chance of a frozen mix, make sure you have your ice scraper in the car before Friday night.
3. Watch the Overnight Lows: Monday’s low of 15°F is the kind of temperature that freezes pipes in older apartment buildings. If you're in one of the classic Fort Lee rentals, keep those cabinets under the sink open to let the heat in.
4. Plan Your Commute Around Closures: Since the bridge is closing tonight at 11 pm, get home early or plan for a long detour through the tunnels.

Winter in Bergen County isn't just about the temperature; it's about the timing. Stay warm out there.

Actionable Insight: If you have outdoor chores, get them done today or Friday afternoon. By Saturday, the "frozen mix" makes outdoor work miserable, and by Monday, the 15°F low makes it nearly impossible.