New Jersey is in for a stretch of seasonably pleasant weather as we head deeper into September, thanks to a mostly zonal upper jet stream flowing over the eastern United States. With no significant troughs or ridges forming in the atmosphere over the next 7 to 10 days, conditions should remain fairly steady—comfortable for the time of year and generally cooperative for outdoor plans.
Daytime highs are expected to hover in the 70s across much of the state, with overnight lows ranging from the mid-40s in northwestern elevations to the upper 50s and low 60s near the coast. It’s the type of early fall weather New Jerseyans look forward to: crisp evenings, cool mornings, and mild afternoons that make it easy to get outside and enjoy the season. Still, there are two anomalies to keep an eye on, one unfolding today and the other expected midweek.
Friday’s Warm Surge and Overnight Change
Today has felt more like a late-summer throwback than an early fall afternoon. Widespread highs have climbed into the low to mid-80s, with some inland areas registering slightly sticky dew points above 60. While not unbearable, it was just enough humidity to remind us of summer’s persistence. This warm spell won’t last, however. A dry cold front is approaching and will sweep across the state tonight. Behind it, northwest winds will usher in a much cooler and drier air mass. By Saturday morning, the entire region will be back under a refreshing autumn feel.
A Picture-Perfect Weekend Ahead
Saturday looks to deliver a classic September day. Sunshine will dominate, humidity will drop, and high temperatures will level off in the mid-70s. Winds out of the east and northeast will remain light, giving the day an easy, pleasant feel. Overnight lows will dip quickly after sunset, with much of inland New Jersey cooling into the 40s and lower 50s. The coast will stay a touch warmer, closer to the upper 50s.
Sunday will follow suit with more sunshine and slightly more passing clouds. Highs should land in the low to mid-70s across the state with light easterly breezes. Sunday night once again dips comfortably into the 45–60 range, depending on elevation and proximity to the shoreline. Together, the weekend promises prime conditions for fall festivals, hiking, and other seasonal activities.
Looking Into Next Week
As the new week begins, temperatures are expected to stay in the 70s with cooler nights—very much in line with seasonal averages. Some areas along the I-95 corridor could briefly touch 80 degrees during the warmer periods. By midweek, the pattern shifts slightly with the return of a more humid air mass and the potential for showers or storms from a passing frontal system. If current models hold, this could be the third consecutive week featuring a midweek rain event. Once the front clears, cooler air should return, setting the stage for another refreshing weekend.
Farther out, there are early hints of another system around Friday into early Saturday, though it is too soon to call with confidence. For now, it’s safe to say that the week will feature a brief warm-up, a likely rain chance Wednesday, and then a drop back into more autumn-like air.
The Tropics Remain Quiet
Hurricane season is still active, but New Jersey is not currently under any direct threat. Tropical Storm Gabrielle, which developed out in the Atlantic, is tracking well to the east and expected to pass near Bermuda before curving away from the U.S. East Coast. While no rain or wind impacts are forecast for New Jersey, beachgoers should be mindful of increased surf and rip current risks due to long-range swells moving toward the shoreline.
Planning Ahead
With the tropics quiet and no major storm systems on the horizon, the coming stretch looks favorable for outdoor activities. Whether you’re visiting a local farm market, heading to a football game, or taking in one of New Jersey’s many seasonal events, the weather will mostly cooperate. For ongoing updates and detailed daily forecasts, visit Explore New Jersey Weather Reports to stay ahead of changing conditions.
This September is shaping up to be a showcase of what many consider the state’s best weather of the year—sunny afternoons, cool nights, and just enough variety to keep things interesting without disrupting plans. New Jersey residents can enjoy a true taste of fall over the next week, with only brief interruptions from passing fronts.