So, you're looking at the sky over the Raritan and wondering if you actually need that heavy parka or just a light layer for a quick run to George Street. Honestly, New Brunswick weather is a bit of a trickster. One minute you're enjoying a crisp winter afternoon, and the next, the wind coming off the river makes you regret every life choice that led you outdoors.
Right now, if you step outside in New Brunswick, it’s 32°F. Sounds manageable? Well, the feels like temperature is actually 23°F. That’s the "Hub City" reality for you. We’ve got a west wind kicking at 12 mph, which is just enough to bite through a wool coat if you aren't zipped up.
The Current Weather Forecast New Brunswick NJ Breakdown
Basically, today is a "partly sunny" kind of day. We’re looking at a high of 34°F and a low of 23°F. Humidity is sitting at a dry 34%, so your skin might feel it, but at least it’s not that damp, bone-chilling cold that New Jersey is famous for in February.
The UV index is a flat 1, so don't worry about the sunscreen unless you’re spending the entire day reflecting light off the remaining snow patches. Speaking of snow, there’s a tiny 5% chance of flakes right now, but that jumps up tonight.
✨ Don't miss: Warby Parker n 6th st: What Most People Get Wrong About the Williamsburg Location
What’s Happening Tonight?
If you have plans at the State Theatre or you’re headed out for dinner, keep an eye on the clouds. The evening starts partly cloudy but will turn fully cloudy as the night progresses.
- Low Temperature: 23°F
- Wind: West at 14 mph
- Precipitation: 25% chance of snow overnight
It’s not exactly a blizzard, but a quarter-chance of snow means you might wake up to a dusting on your windshield.
📖 Related: When Did Abolition Start? The Real Timeline They Didn't Teach You in School
Why the Raritan Valley Climate is Weird
Kinda interesting—New Brunswick sits in this weird little pocket. The Rutgers Meteorology Program folks, who literally have their home base right here, often point out how the urban heat island effect from the city and the proximity to the Raritan River create these micro-shifts. You might see more fog near the water or slightly warmer temps near the train station compared to the more open areas of Cook Campus.
Historically, January is our "deep freeze" month. The average high is usually around 40°F, but we’re trending a bit lower today. It’s also the cloudiest month of the year here, with the sky being overcast about 53% of the time. So, if you see a patch of blue sky today, enjoy it while it lasts.
Survival Tips for New Brunswick Winters
You've probably noticed that everyone on the Rutgers buses is bundled up like they're headed to the Arctic. There’s a reason for that. Between the wind tunnels created by the tall buildings downtown and the damp air near the canal, the temperature on your phone rarely tells the whole story.
- Trust the "Feels Like": If the app says 32°F but "Feels Like" 23°F, dress for 23°F. Period.
- Wind Protection: A windbreaker or a puffer jacket is your best friend. A standard fleece won't stop that 14 mph west wind.
- Footwear Matters: Even with a low chance of snow, the salt and slush from previous days can make the sidewalks around Easton Ave pretty slick.
Honestly, the weather forecast for New Brunswick, NJ, is looking pretty standard for mid-January. It’s cold, it’s breezy, and there’s just enough moisture in the air to keep things interesting.
Actionable Next Steps
Check your wiper fluid levels today. With a 25% chance of snow tonight and temps staying below freezing, you don't want to be stuck with a salt-smeared windshield tomorrow morning. If you're commuting, give yourself an extra five minutes for a potential "frost scrape" session before heading out.