New Jersey’s Governor Mikie Sherrill has declared a state of emergency as a significant snowstorm is expected to affect the Tri-State Area this weekend, leading to winter storm warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Speaking at a news conference in Ewing, Sherrill emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “This is not an average winter storm. This is a storm the likes of which we haven’t seen in probably about a decade.” She expressed confidence in New Jersey’s preparedness but urged residents to prioritize their safety.
The weather forecast predicts that much of New Jersey could receive between 6 to 12 inches of snow from Sunday into Monday, with some areas in North Jersey potentially accumulating over a foot. The governor detailed the timeline of the storm, indicating it will start Saturday night and last through early Monday afternoon, while also issuing a cold weather advisory.
In light of the storm, Sherrill announced restrictions on commercial vehicles traveling on interstate highways and indicated that updates regarding NJ Transit services would be communicated by Saturday morning. She strongly advised residents to avoid travel during the storm, suggesting it would be a good opportunity to stay home and enjoy family activities.
More than 1,600 pieces of snow-clearing equipment are on standby to treat critical roadways such as the NJ Turnpike and Garden State Parkway. Sherrill noted that local roads may begin to see plowing by Monday afternoon, depending on the storm’s progression.
Concerns about a potential salt shortage were addressed, with Sherrill assuring residents that the state has ample supplies available at the Port Newark–Elizabeth Marine Terminal. She urged municipalities to collect salt if they felt unprepared. Video footage captured on the scene indicated significant salt reserves at the port.
The governor’s emergency declaration follows a similar move by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who also warned residents about the impending storm and encouraged them to stock up on essential supplies while minimizing travel. New York’s forecast mirrors that of New Jersey, with expected snow accumulations ranging from 8 to 12 inches in urban areas and more in northern regions.
Authorities are working diligently to manage the storm’s impact and ensure citizen safety, emphasizing both preparation and caution as communities brace for the challenging weather conditions ahead.