State of Emergency Declared Across New Jersey Ahead of Major Winter Storm

State of Emergency Declared Across New Jersey Ahead of Major Winter Storm

New Jersey officials have declared a statewide state of emergency as a powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, ice, and dangerous travel conditions across the region this weekend.

Governor Mikie Sherrill announced the emergency during an afternoon press conference, warning residents that the storm could deliver up to 18 inches of snow in some areas along with a significant mix of ice. Officials say the storm is expected to last multiple days and could continue impacting travel and daily life into Monday.

“Please continue making plans to stay indoors on Sunday,” Sherrill said. “I’m urging New Jerseyans to avoid travel starting Saturday evening and throughout all of Sunday.” The governor also announced that commercial vehicle travel restrictions will be put in place on interstate highways to reduce the risk of accidents during the worst conditions.

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for the entire state. Depending on the county, those warnings remain in effect through Monday afternoon or Monday evening. Officials cautioned that snowfall totals and icing could vary by region, but emphasized that all areas should prepare for hazardous conditions.

“It’s been a while since we’ve seen a storm like this,” Sherrill said. “Please stay off the roads and do not commit to anything Monday morning. We may still be digging out.”

Public transportation officials are also preparing for potential disruptions. NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri said the agency will issue recommendations Saturday morning regarding service adjustments. Crews have already been deployed to strategic locations across the state to respond quickly as conditions deteriorate.

“Our number one focus is safety. The safety of our customers and the safety of our employees,” Kolluri said. He added that NJ Transit will remain in close coordination with Amtrak, which manages the rail network used by NJ Transit trains.

State officials are also addressing concerns related to road treatment and power outages. Sherrill said additional road salt is available for municipalities through Morton’s, which is prioritizing local governments after some communities reported shortages earlier in the week.

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has begun coordinating with utility companies statewide. NJBPU President Christine Guhl Sadovy said energy providers have already secured mutual aid crews and urged residents to report outages directly to their utility companies if power is lost.

Officials continue to stress that preparation and staying off the roads will be critical as the storm moves through New Jersey.