Gov. Murphy Declares State Of Emergency For Weekend Snowstorm

Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency for the winter storm that's expected to his New Jersey this weekend, allowing for the extension of state resources into communities directly impacted by the ice and snow. All 21 counties are impacted. Read more: NJ Weather: Hour-By-Hour Forecast Of Snow, Rain And Flash Freeze

Murphy said the state of emergency will go into effect on noon Saturday and that salt spreaders and plows will be deployed throughout the state. Read more: Winter Storm Warning In 6 Counties As All NJ Faces Ice Nightmare

There will be a commercial vehicle travel ban for I-195, I-78, I-80, I-280, I-287 and I-295, between exits 60-76, starting at 12 noon.

High winds and ice could bring trees and branches down on roadways. NJDOT crews have tree-clearing equipment available to remove debris from state highways to ensure plows, emergency personnel and utility companies can get through.

In addition, the department is prepared for possible flooding in South Jersey from heavy rain.

The department is reminding motorists:

• AVOID UNNECESSARY TRAVEL during the storm
• If you must drive and road conditions deteriorate, GET OFF THE ROAD somewhere safe and wait it out
• Always STAY CLEAR of plows and spreading trucks. If they are behind you, let them pass
• DO NOT PASS between trucks that are in a plow formation

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management has been in contact with all 21 county emergency management offices, and members of the Emergency Response Bureau are working with their counties to address any storm-related needs.

State emergency management partners have been notified and will continue to coordinate with NJOEM on any traffic and power concerns, and the New Jersey Department of Transportation is prepared and ready to respond to the storm with up to 2,500 plows and spreaders.

“The latest forecasts continue to indicate that New Jersey will receive significant snow this weekend,” said Murphy. “We are closely monitoring the approaching snow storm and are prepared to keep New Jerseyans safe. Residents are urged to stay off the roads to the extent possible and always use their best judgment when traveling.”

"Troopers throughout the state are ready to assist residents and commuters both on and off of the highways for the duration of the storm should the need arise,"said Colonel Patrick Callahan of the New Jersey State Police. "But we cannot do it alone. Please use caution when traveling and prepare an emergency kit for use at home and on the roadways.”

Governor Murphy photo