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State of Emergency - Wednesday, March 21

Governor Murphy declared a state of emergency Tuesday night as yet another major winter storm is set to hit New Jersey -- one that could dump more than a foot of snow on some parts of the state over the next two days. Murphy also ordered state offices closed Wednesday.

The powerful nor'easter is expected to batter the state from Tuesday evening until Wednesday, the first day of spring.

The National Weather Service forecasters say most of the state could get 12 to 18 inches of snow, with all but the coastal areas getting at least 8 inches.

The heavy snow will be accompanied by winds that could gust up to 50 mph along the coast, moderate coastal flooding and downed trees that could lead to power outages.

Declaring a state of emergency allows states to qualify for federal funds that can be used for immediate response and recovery.
It also puts the New Jersey National Guard and state agencies on notice to provide any assistance they can to local cities and towns.

Here's what it doesn't do: A state of emergency does not require residents to take any action. It also does not mean there is a travel ban in place.

Governor Murphy stated the four private utility companies who service the state are lining up extra workers to help restore electricity should outages happen this time.

The governor also encouraged residents to stay inside after the heavy snow begins to fall. Do not head out into the snow unless you absolutely have to. Please give the local, county, and state crews the chance to work unimpeded to get our roads and highways clear.
In addition, if you experience a power outage, please report it immediately to your power company.

Garden State residents may consult the state's emergency preparedness website, www.ready.nj.gov for further information. Information about road conditions will be available at the New Jersey Department of Transportation website: http://www.511nj.org/.