'Entire Neighborhoods' In Hillsdale Without Power

HILLSDALE, NJ — Hundreds of people are without power following the late-season nor'easter that swept across North Jersey Wednesday.

Mayor John Ruocco said that "entire neighborhoods" are without power due to several tree limbs and power lines that are down throughout town.

Nearly 500 PSE&G customers are without power. They may not get it back until Saturday, the utility reported.

The Department of Public Works is in the process of removing debris from borough roads, but cannot remove tree branches if there is an issue with wires, Ruocco said.

"We urge all residents not to approach downed wires or to try themselves to remove large tree branches that block the road," Ruocco said.

Borough Hall has been opened as a warming center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Residents may charge their cell phones there as well.

Ruocco asked residents to clear snow and ice from fire hydrants and sidewalks.

Branches and other vegetative waste will be picked up beginning Monday.

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Photo courtesy Brookline, Mass. Police Department