New Jersey Governor Declares State of Emergency as Powerful Winter Storm Strikes

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a State of Emergency for five counties. The move came on Monday ahead of a significant winter storm. The storm is impacting millions across the Eastern United States.

The National Weather Service warned of hazardous conditions. Snow, ice, and rain threaten to disrupt travel and close schools. The declaration mobilizes state resources for a swift response.

Widespread Impact: Over 80 Million Under Weather Advisories

The storm system is massive. According to NBC News, over 80 million people are affected. More than 50 million are under winter weather advisories or warnings.

The storm began in the Midwest. It dumped over a foot of snow in parts of Iowa and Missouri. It then moved eastward into the Ohio Valley and Northeast.

The affected New Jersey counties are Hunterdon, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, and Warren. These areas are expected to see the worst conditions. Forecasters predicted 1 to 3 inches of snow and a light glaze of ice.

State Response and Public Safety Measures Activated

Governor Murphy urged extreme caution from residents. He activated the State Emergency Operations Center. Road crews were deployed to salt and plow highways overnight.

Many school districts announced closures or delays. The goal is to keep students and staff safe. The messy conditions made the Tuesday morning commute treacherous.

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management advised people to stay off roads if possible. They recommended checking ready.nj.gov for official updates. Emergency services are on high alert across the region.

Similar preparations occurred in neighboring states. New York Governor Kathy Hochul also warned residents of dangerous travel. The storm is the first major winter event of the season for the Northeast.

Governor Murphy’s proactive State of Emergency declaration aims to mitigate the storm’s disruption. This major winter storm serves as a stark reminder for all residents to prepare for severe weather. Staying informed and avoiding unnecessary travel remains the safest course of action.

Info at your fingertips

Which New Jersey counties are under a State of Emergency?

Governor Murphy declared the emergency for five northwestern counties. These are Hunterdon, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, and Warren counties. The areas are under a Winter Weather Advisory.

What should residents in affected areas do?

Officials urge people to avoid travel if possible. If driving is necessary, use extreme caution on roads. Stay updated with alerts from the National Weather Service and local authorities.

How much snow is the storm expected to bring?

Accumulations vary by region. The affected NJ counties may see 1 to 3 inches of snow. Some areas in northern New England could receive over a foot of snow.

Are schools closed due to the winter storm?

Yes, numerous school districts have announced closures or delayed openings. This primarily affects districts within the State of Emergency zone. Parents should check local district announcements for specific information.

What is causing this severe winter weather?

Meteorologists point to a southward shift in the polar vortex. This pattern pulls colder air into the eastern United States. When this cold air meets moisture from storm systems, it creates widespread wintry precipitation.