India, Dec. 4 -- New Jersey is bracing for an intense Arctic blast that is expected to sweep through the state beginning Thursday, bringing plunging temperatures, brisk winds, and the possibility of light snow in some areas. The cold front marks the state's first true Arctic outbreak of the season and may challenge several long-standing temperature records, according to forecasters.

Temperatures will steadily fall through the week, with Wednesday bringing mostly sunny skies but colder air. The winter shift comes as a storm system moves across the Northeast, delivering snow to parts of New England, including New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency for five northwest...