A curious occurence is blanking the streets of Bernards Township today, as cold, white particles are seemingly falling from the sky and covering the ground. No word has yet been released as to the nature of the substance... OK it's snow. Again.

The most recent reports are for 3-6 inches today and another 3-6 inches overnight, according to AccuWeather. Another 1-2 inches could fall Friday morning as well. The time to watch is midday Thursday, as the temperature hovers around freezing. The longer the mercury rises above 32, the more rain and slush will prevent large snowfall totals. Current best guess predictions from AccuWeather are for 11 inches.

The bigger concern, which prompted a National Weather Service wind advisory alert, in effect from 4 p.m. today to Friday at noon, is that gusts anywhere from 20-60 mph could cause hazardous conditions. AccuWeather reports the highest sustained wind should register at 23 mph, with maximum gusts up to 61 mph.

Trees might already be sagging from previous storms, and the combination of wind and heavy, wet snow could cause limbs to fall  – potentially interfering with power lines. Travel could also be dangerous due to occasionally heavy snowfall and reduced visibility due to blown snow. The National Weather Service alert said, "Heavy snowfalls coupled with these strong gusty winds may produce near blizzard conditions." A winter storm warning is also currently in effect and will expire at noon on Friday.

With schools already closed due to winter break and no sports games scheduled in the area for Ridge (the ski racing meets were postponed, however), cancellations are at a minimum in town. The YMCA is closed today, both facilities. However, the township offices remain open and the Bernards Township Library is operating under normal hours as of 12:30 p.m. The 250th Anniversary Task Force meeting is still on as well for 4 p.m.