You woke up today and didn’t immediately want to crawl back under the covers. That’s because the Newark weather for today is doing something a little bit strange for the middle of January. Usually, this time of year in the Brick City involves dodging ice patches on Broad Street or shivering while waiting for a PATH train that’s running late. But today? Today feels like a gift—or maybe a warning, depending on how much you trust a Jersey winter.
Honestly, it’s remarkably mild.
We’re seeing highs climbing toward 47°F, which is several degrees above what we usually expect for January 13. By 4:00 PM, the thermometer at Newark Liberty International Airport was hovering right around 46°F. If you’re out and about, it’s not exactly beach weather, but compared to the bitter single digits we’ve seen in years past, it’s a total win.
The Breakdown: Newark Weather for Today and Tonight
So, what is actually happening out there?
The morning started out pretty crisp at 36°F. Typical Newark. But then that southwest wind kicked in. It’s a gentle breeze, about 8 to 12 mph, but it’s doing the heavy lifting by dragging in that warmer air from the south. You’ve probably noticed the sky looking a bit "blah" though. We’ve got a thick layer of clouds that just won’t quit, and they’re only going to get denser as the sun sets.
Hourly Vibes
- Late Afternoon: Holding steady in the mid-40s. A light jacket is enough.
- Evening: Temperatures will start a slow, lazy descent, but they won't plummet.
- Overnight: We’re looking at a low around 38°F or 39°F.
That’s the weird part. Usually, Newark drops below freezing the second the sun goes down in January. Tonight, we’re staying well above the 32°F mark.
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But there is a catch. There's always a catch in New Jersey.
Around 1:00 AM, a slight chance of showers creeps into the forecast. We’re talking a 20% chance. It’s basically just enough to make the sidewalk look shiny and annoy you if you’re walking the dog late at night. The National Weather Service is keeping a close eye on this moisture, but for now, it’s just a "maybe" on the rain front.
Why the Air Quality Is the Real Story
While everyone is talking about the "heatwave" (okay, mid-40s isn't a heatwave, but you know what I mean), you should actually be looking at the air quality.
Today’s AQI in Newark is sitting in the "Poor" or "Fair" range. Specifically, the AirNow and AccuWeather sensors are flagging Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) as slightly elevated. It’s that classic urban trap—mild, stagnant air tends to hold onto pollutants instead of blowing them out toward the Hudson.
If you have asthma or sensitive lungs, today might not be the best day for a long run through Branch Brook Park. It’s not "hazardous," but it’s definitely "noticeable."
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The Winter 2026 Context
Looking at the broader data from the New Jersey Weather and Climate Network, this January has been a bit of a rollercoaster. We had some light snow earlier in the month—shoutout to that Jan 1 dusting—but the trend for the middle of the month is definitely leaning toward "milder than average."
Richard L. Smith over at RLS Media noted earlier today that while the morning was chilly, the afternoon breeze is what’s defining the day. This isn't just a Newark thing; the whole Atlantic corridor is experiencing this little January thaw.
Looking Ahead: Don't Get Too Comfortable
Newark weather is nothing if not unpredictable.
While today is mild, the "slight chance of showers" tonight is actually the front edge of a shift. Tomorrow, Wednesday, we might actually hit 50°F. Sounds great, right? Well, that warmth is bringing more rain. And once that rain passes through Wednesday night, things get messy.
By Thursday morning, that rain might decide it wants to be snow.
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The National Weather Service is forecasting a transition from rain to a rain/snow mix after midnight Wednesday into Thursday. Temperatures will drop back down toward 30°F by Thursday evening, and we’ll be dealing with wind gusts up to 28 mph.
Basically, enjoy today. Wear the lighter coat. Take the long way to the office. Because by the time Friday rolls around, we’ll be back to a high of 34°F and wondering where the "warmth" went.
Actionable Tips for Newark Residents Today
- Check your tires: With temperatures fluctuating from 47°F today to 30°F on Thursday, tire pressure is going to go haywire. Check them now while it’s not freezing outside.
- Air Purifiers on: Since the AQI is a bit sluggish today, keep the indoor air clean.
- Commute Prep: If you’re heading out late tonight or early tomorrow, be ready for damp roads. Those 1:00 AM showers won't be heavy, but they'll be enough to make the Turnpike greasy.
- Layer Up: Don't let the 47°F fool you into thinking winter is over. Keep the heavy gear ready for the Thursday/Friday snap.
The Newark weather for today is a brief breather in an otherwise standard Jersey winter. Take advantage of the lack of ice, but keep an eye on the sky—the rain is coming, and the cold isn't far behind it.
Stay hydrated, keep your eyes on the radar, and maybe grab a coffee while it's still nice enough to walk to the shop without your ears turning red.