Honestly, if you’ve spent any time in Passaic County, you know that the weather for clifton new jersey is basically a roll of the dice. One minute you're grabbing a Taylor Ham sandwich in the bright sun, and the next, you’re digging your car out of a snowbank. It's weird.
Right now, we're sitting in the thick of a classic Jersey winter. As of today, January 16, 2026, Clifton is feeling the bite. The current temperature is a crisp 21°F, but don't let that number fool you. With a 12 mph wind coming out of the west, it actually feels like a brutal 9°F out there.
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Tonight is looking clear with some periodic clouds, but don't get too comfortable. While the chance of precipitation is at 0% right now, there's a shift coming.
What to Expect Through the Weekend
If you're planning to head out to Main Ave or hit the shops, keep an eye on the sky. Today’s high is expected to hit 32°F, which is the freezing mark, but the real story starts after dark.
The low will drop to 19°F, and the humidity is hanging around 37%. Here is the kicker: while the daytime is sunny, the nighttime forecast calls for snow. We’re looking at a 35% chance of the white stuff tonight. It’s not a blizzard, but it’s enough to make the roads slick by tomorrow morning.
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The Clifton Climate Myth
People think Northern Jersey is just one big gray cloud from December to March. Not true. Actually, January is the cloudiest month here, with about 53% cloud cover on average, but we still get plenty of those blindingly bright, freezing "bluebird" days.
Historically, January is our coldest stretch. The average high usually hovers around 38°F, and the lows dip to 25°F. Today is actually running a bit colder than the historical norm.
- Records & Reality: The coldest day on record for Clifton usually lands around January 29th.
- Snow Trends: We usually see about 8.1 inches of snow total throughout January.
- Wind Factor: Winds average about 10 mph this time of year, making that "feels like" temp the most important number on your weather app.
Tips for Surviving the Chill
If you’re living here, you know the drill, but a reminder never hurts. Layering is everything. When the wind hits 13 mph like it's forecasted to today, a heavy coat isn't enough; you need a windbreaker layer.
Check your tire pressure. These temperature swings from 32°F down to 19°F will trigger that annoying "low pressure" light on your dashboard faster than you can get through the Tice's Corner parking lot.
Looking Ahead
The snow chance tonight (35%) might just be a dusting, but with temperatures staying well below freezing, whatever falls is going to stick. Keep the salt handy for your sidewalk. If you're commuting toward the city or Teterboro, give yourself an extra ten minutes.
Keep an eye on the wind direction. That west wind at 13 mph is going to keep the chill factor high well into tomorrow. Basically, it’s officially "stay inside and order pizza" weather.
Next Steps for Clifton Residents
- Check your anti-freeze levels tonight before the temperature hits that 19°F low.
- Clear your gutters of any lingering ice or debris to prevent dams if that 35% snow chance turns into a wet slush.
- Monitor local traffic sensors on Route 3 and 46 tomorrow morning, as the overnight snow could create black ice patches.