Newark Prepares For Blizzard: Schools, Plowing, Garbage, Shoveling, Parking, Power Outages

NEWARK, NJ — New Jersey is under a state of emergency as a severe winter storm bears down on the state, including Newark.

The National Weather Service is predicting that up to two feet of snow may fall in Newark on Sunday and Monday (see local forecast below). Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s state of emergency declaration took effect at noon on Sunday.

“I am announcing speed restriction of 35 miles-per-hour, which will take effect at 3 p.m.,” Sherrill said. “A commercial vehicle ban will also take effect at 3 p.m. [Sunday] on all our highways – except the Turnpike.”

>> READ MORE: Highway Speed Restrictions, Travel Bans In Place As Brutal Blizzard Barrels Into NJ

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for Newark, with a Blizzard Warning for the city lasting until 6 p.m. on Monday.

Here’s the 48-hour local forecast for Newark, as per the NWS:

Sunday Afternoon - Snow. Steady temperature around 34. Wind chill values between 20 and 25. Northeast wind 11 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. Total daytime snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.

Sunday Night - Snow. The snow could be heavy at times. Areas of blowing snow after 1am. Low around 28. Wind chill values between 15 and 20. Windy, with a north wind 18 to 23 mph increasing to 25 to 30 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 46 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New snow accumulation of 11 to 17 inches possible.

Monday - Snow, mainly before 1pm. The snow could be heavy at times. Areas of blowing snow before 4pm. High near 35. Wind chill values between 15 and 20. Windy, with a north wind 22 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 46 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches possible.

Monday Night - Cloudy, then gradually becoming partly cloudy, with a low around 22. Wind chill values between 10 and 15. Northwest wind 15 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

NEWARK BATTENS DOWN THE HATCHES

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka urged local residents to “take necessary precautions.” Baraka said he has directed leadership and key staff from every essential city department to prepare for the storm.

Here are some things to know ahead of the snowfall in Newark:

SCHOOLS

All Newark public schools and the district's central office will be closed on Monday, Feb. 23.

PLOWING

During snowstorms, the city mobilizes personnel and vehicles to spread salt and plow roads as conditions dictate. The first priority for salting is hills, bridges, and major arteries that lead in and out of the city’s borders, officials said.

GARBAGE

Newark residents should hold their garbage and recycling. The Department of Public Works (DPW) Zone A collections are canceled for Monday, Feb. 23.

SHOVELING

City officials reminded residents, business owners and landlords that anyone who shovels snow into city streets will face Municipal Court action and fines ranging from $100 to $1,000.

Newark residents were asked to follow a few neighborly tips:

• “If possible, share your driveway with neighbors”
• “Clear snow and ice from the sidewalk in front of your storefront or home (remember that it’s the law to do so)”
• “Do not throw snow into the street”
• “Clear snow away from hydrants”

PARKING

Need to park during the storm? Here’s what to know in Newark, officials said:

• All residents are asked to be mindful of the city’s “No Parking on Snow Covered Roads” regulations due to the expected snowfall. Signs have been posted on streets throughout the City of Newark to notify motorists of the streets designated for No Parking on Snow-Covered Roads. (See a list of affected roads here). Failure to comply with “No Parking on Snow Covered Roadways” signs will result in towing. Vehicle owners will be responsible for towing costs.
• Double parking is also prohibited during snow emergencies to enable snow plows to clear the roadways.
• Enforcement of parking meter violations and alternate side of the street ticketing by the Newark Parking Authority has been suspended.

“If you have a driveway, use it,” Mayor Baraka said. “Or park your car in one of the designated school lots available during the storm, so the plows can work faster and emergency vehicles can get where they are needed.”

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

For all non-emergency weather-related matters, contact the Department of Public Safety at: (973) 733-6000.

To report no heat or hot water in your apartment, call the Division of Code Enforcement at (973) 733-6471.

If you encounter an unsheltered individual in need of non-emergency services, please text “PATH HOME” to 855-11.

POWER OUTAGES

Newark residents should compile a list of emergency phone numbers, including PSE&G’s Customer Service line, 1-800-436-PSEG, which can be used to to report power outages or downed wires.

“Downed wires may appear dead but should always be considered ‘live,” officials said. “Do not approach or drive over a downed line, and do not touch anything that it might be in contact with.”

Here are some other things to do to prepare for a potential outage, Newark officials said:

• Charge your cell phones, tablets and other mobile devices.
• Fill up your car’s fuel tank.
• Ensure you have a battery-powered radio and a supply of fresh batteries.
• Put your refrigerator and freezer at the coldest setting. Keep a blanket handy to throw over these appliances for added insulation. If electricity is interrupted, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.

WINTER SAFETY

According to Newark public safety officials, some things to keep in mind include:

• Keep Emergency Supplies: Ensure you have food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit on hand.
• Avoid Overexertion: Shoveling snow or walking in heavy snow can strain your heart and muscles. Take frequent breaks.
• Car Readiness: Keep gas tank at least full, and have blankets food, water, flashlight, jumper cables, shovel and ice scraper handy in the vehicle.
• Health & Community: Check on elderly neighbors, people with disabilities, and those living alone. Keep medical equipment charged and accessible. Wear layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
• Safety: Limit travel unless absolutely necessary. Roads may be slippery and dangerous. Never use outdoor grills or generators indoors. Test carbon monoxide detectors.
• Protect Pets: Don’t leave pets outdoors and provide adequate food and water.

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