Say It Isn't Snow: Newark Prepares For Weekend Snowstorm

NEWARK, NJ — As forecasters warn about a possible weekend snowstorm, Newark has begun making preparations in case the weather turns bad, officials reported Thursday.

As a winter storm travels up the East Coast, some parts of New Jersey could see significant snowfall on Friday or Saturday, according to forecasters. But depending on the north-traveling storm's path, the Garden State might miss the worst of the snowfall. Read More: Snow Possible For Weekend Storm In New Jersey

In Newark, public safety officials reminded residents to take care if the bad weather hits. That doesn’t just include snow; wind chill values are expected to reach between 5 and 10 degrees on Saturday, officials said.

In response, the City of Newark has announced a “Code Blue” through Saturday, Jan. 29. A Code Blue is called when temperatures reach 25 degrees or lower without precipitation, 32 degrees with precipitation, or when there is a wind chill factor of zero degrees.

Newark officials reminded residents that there are emergency shelters operating during the extreme cold weather and about its partnerships with social service agencies. For more information about sheltering services, contact the shelters listed below or the Office of Homeless Services at: (973) 877-9481, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

PARKING/FLOODING

Newark officials also reminded residents 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.”

“Because motorists can become stranded by driving through flooded streets and high water, drivers are asked to avoid certain locations and to use alternative routes,” Newark officials said.

People can click here for a list of streets to avoid due to flooding. This link can also be found at the Department of Public Safety’s website: www.newarkpublicsafety.org.

Call 973-733-6000 for non-emergency weather related matters. Dial 911 for emergencies, authorities said.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Sign up for Patch email newsletters. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Keep updated with local public safety alerts at the Patch Newark Facebook page.