Once again, Middle Sex County and other New Jersey residents are at the mercy of the La Niña climate pattern. For those who may be unaware, the La Niña pattern, a natural ocean-atmospheric phenomenon, occurs when the Pacific’s surface temperature becomes cooler than average along the equator and often has a severe impact on North American seasons. Although it is still too early to tell the exact impact the Pacific Ocean climate patterns will have on New Jersey’s winter, forecasters speculate that residents are in for another record-breaking winter.
Likelihood of Snow
Last year, Middlesex County and other parts of New Jersey saw one of the greatest snowfalls in the state’s history, with more than 30.6 inches of snow in February alone. On average, the state receives just over 10 inches each winter; however, last year, New Jersey saw its second snowiest February on record. Many meteorologists blamed La Niña for last year’s historic snowfall; however, for the 2021 season, forecasters and meteorologists are still unsure whether or not the climate pattern will increase the state’s chances for another snowy winter. As snowfall is reliant on a variety of different factors such as arctic temperature, moisture development, and wind direction, it is currently impossible to tell whether or not New Jersey will see snowstorms this winter.
Temperature Forecast
For over 230 years, the Old Farmer’s Almanac has predicted with 80 percent accuracy winter weather forecasts. This year, the Old Farmer’s Almanac stated that Americans could be in for one of the longest and coldest winters we’ve seen in years. Many meteorologists and forecasters from across the country agree with this prediction and are warning their state’s residents that they may be in for a colder-than-usual winter. So what does this mean for Middlesex County, NJ, residents? La Niña will likely make an appearance in late November with waves of cold air and potentially multiple rounds of snow. Additionally, a potential polar vortex could send arctic air along the East Coast, extending wintery weather well past March 1st.
How Best to Prepare
With this upcoming winter likely a cold one, GasTec, supplier of propane services for Middlesex County, NJ, residents recommends families living within the county and other parts of New Jersey prepare for the winter by stocking up on propane. As with previous winters, propane can often sell out in certain areas thanks to low supplies. With the increased likelihood of severe weather and the nation’s current supply chain issues, Middlesex County, NJ, propane service supplier GasTec recommends that residents purchase their propane winter supplies early.