UPDATE: Precipitation Moving Into Ocean County

UPDATE, 2 p.m.: Snow began falling in southern Ocean County and the central part of the state within the last hour -- right on schedule, according to predictions from the National Weather Service.

Local officials have joined in sharing the alerts issued earlier by the weather service, which warn of hazardous driving during the evening commute as the snow -- 2 to 4 inches is predicted to fall -- and falling temperatures make icy roads a probability.

Snow is expected to continue until at least 9 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

Check out the radar image of the storm as it moves in by clicking here.

EARLIER:

The Ocean County Sheriff’s Office is alerting drivers to be prepared for hazardous conditions later today, after the National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory for southern New Jersey counties, including Ocean County.

The Mount Holly office issued the advisory, which is in effect from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., saying the oncoming winter storm will be bringing sleet and snow to the area starting midday, and while it could begin as rain, it is expected to change to all snow after sunset.

“The snow could become heavy during the mid- to late afternoon before tapering off in the early evening,” the weather advisory said. Total snow accumulation could be as much as 4 inches, according to the forecast.

The combination of snow and sleet could result in icy roads, and bands of heavy snow are possible, reducing visibilty. Temperatures are expected to hover around freezing.

“Motorists are urged to exercise caution,” the advisory said.