State of Emergency in NJ: Preparations for Imminent Winter Storm

Governor Declares State of Emergency

Ahead of the impending winter storm that could dump up to 8 inches of snow on parts of New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency.

The state of emergency will take effect at 8 a.m. on Sunday, Murphy said in a statement issued Saturday afternoon. The declaration was made in response to "significant winter weather, causing hazardous weather conditions including heavy snow and dangerously low temperatures."

Murphy stated, "We are anticipating a winter storm to bring heavy snow starting tomorrow morning, followed by dangerously low temperatures expected on Monday and continuing through Wednesday." "As usual, I encourage everyone in New Jersey to exercise caution, adhere to all safety precautions, and stay off the roads unless it is absolutely necessary."

The impending storm's timing was shifted on Saturday, and snowfall is predicted to begin as early as Sunday morning. The National Weather Service says the snow, which could be heavy at times, will last until late Sunday night.

The most recent forecast states that North Jersey will receive 6 to 8 inches of snow, the most of any state. Snowfall totals drop as you get closer to the coast, with interior Central Jersey potentially receiving 4 to 6 inches. It is anticipated that South Jersey will receive 1 to 2 inches.

The area will experience extreme cold following the snowfall. Sunday night will see a sharp drop in temperature, which will continue to be cold throughout the week. With lows in the single digits, the majority of the high temperatures will be in the teens and early 20s.

Following this weekend’s snow, we are expecting extreme cold with wind chills reaching -10° or below. Dangerously cold conditions are expected to persist through most of next week.

Governor Murphy says limit your time outdoors and keep your pets inside as much as possible.

Monday night through Thursday morning will be the coldest time of year, and forecasters are keeping an eye out for the possibility of more snowfall on Tuesday night.