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Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency on Sunday ahead of what is expected to be a major winter storm with up to 2 feet of snow for the northern half of the state due to a blizzard in northern east which could also cause moderate coastal flooding.
The state of emergency goes into effect at 7 p.m. this evening. There are also commercial vehicle restrictions on several major highways and all state offices will be closed on Monday, except essential workers.
- Track when it snows, how much will accumulate in your New Jersey town with this new map
All NJ Transit buses, trains (except Atlantic City Rail Line), light rail and Access Link services will be temporarily suspended across the network on Monday.
“Heavy snowfall, coastal flooding and high winds are expected in many areas of the state,” Murphy said in a statement. “The safety of residents and workers is our top priority. Please follow all weather advice and stay clear of roads to allow access for emergency personnel. “
The governor and other state officials had encouraged residents to take care of any chores or supermarket trips made before Saturday so they could stop Monday and Tuesday and stay off the roads.
Areas near Morristown and Wantage should now see between 12 and 24 inches, the National Weather Service said in an update Sunday afternoon, with New Brunswick expected to reach 18 inches. Areas to the south and along the coast should see much less snow.
Schools across the state have already started announcing closures and other schedule changes, with many moving to fully distance education.
A governor’s declaration of a state of emergency is usually accompanied by stern warnings to keep people off the roads, although law enforcement officers do not have the power to coerce drivers. .
But this order empowers first responders to close roads, evacuate homes, and requisition equipment or other resources to protect public safety.
Additionally, after a high-impact storm, state officials seek financial assistance from the federal government to carry out repairs, and the declaration of emergency is a necessary step in this process.
Monitor the New Jersey State Police and Office of Emergency Management social media accounts for updates:
You can also subscribe to SMS and email alerts:
- NIXLE – www.nixle.com.
- NJ Alert – www.njalert.gov.
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Matt Arco can be reached at [email protected].
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