New Jersey’s Acting Governor Tahesha Way declared a state of emergency on Friday, Dec. 26 at 1 p.m., as a severe winter storm threatens the state with heavy snowfall and dangerous road conditions.
Winter Storm Overview
The storm is expected to bring 5 to 8 inches of snow in parts of the state, with temperatures staying below freezing throughout the weekend. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain are anticipated.
> “Starting this afternoon, we will experience a severe weather storm bringing dangerous outdoor conditions to our state,” Acting Governor Way said. “This storm will cause dangerous road conditions and impact holiday travel. We are urging travelers to avoid travel during the storm and allow crews to tend to the roads. Drivers should plan their travel accordingly, monitor conditions and road closures, and follow all safety protocols.”
State of Emergency and Safety Advice
The emergency, effective 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 26, allows state agencies to mobilize resources. Residents are urged to visit ready.nj.gov for updates and to monitor local forecasts, warnings, and watches. For those in Northern New Jersey and the New York Metro area, the U.S. National Weather Service New York, N.Y. provides information at http://www.weather.gov/okx/. Central and Southern New Jersey residents can consult the U.S. National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly at https://www.weather.gov/phi/.
Commercial Vehicle Travel Restrictions
- Restricted routes: I-78 (entire length), I-80 (entire length), I-280 (entire length), I-287 (entire length), NJ Route 440 from the Outerbridge Crossing to I-287.
- Restricted vehicles: all tractor trailers (exceptions listed in the Administrative Order), empty straight CDL-weighted trucks, passenger vehicles pulling trailers, recreational vehicles, motorcycles.
- Exempt from the ban: New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Atlantic City Expressway, public safety vehicles, sworn and civilian public safety personnel, and others supporting healthcare or critical infrastructure.
Trucks already in New Jersey when the restrictions take effect are encouraged to pull off in truck stops and not park on shoulders.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey declared a state of emergency amid a severe winter storm with heavy snow and dangerous roads.
- Commercial vehicles are banned on major interstates starting 3 p.m. Friday.
- Residents should monitor ready.nj.gov and local weather services for updates.
A severe winter storm has prompted New Jersey’s Acting Governor Tahesha Way to declare a state of emergency, warning residents of heavy snowfall and dangerous road conditions.
