Schools Closed Monday After Power Outages Remain

UPDATED AT 9:50 p.m.

The rare October snowstorm that started Saturday morning and continued into the night continues to cause problems throughout the area.

PSE&G is reporting significant power outages in both Westwood and Washington Township. According to the outage map, Westwood has 2,001 to 5,000 households without power while Washington Township has 501 to 2,000. Overall, PSE&G is reporting that 260,000 customers are without power. The utility also reports that the majority of power outages are in Bergen County, about 104,900.

Because of the power outages in the borough and township, Superintendent Geoffrey Zoeller sent a notification out Sunday letting parents know that schools in the Westwood Regional School District will be closed Monday. A decision about Tuesday has not yet been made. in Washington Township and in Westwood will also be closed Monday because of the storm.

Police in both the borough and the township said there are downed trees and blocked roadways throughout the area and motorists should be cautious.

In Westwood, Old Hook Road remained closed Sunday afternoon between Tillman Street and Emerson Road because of a downed wire. Police continued directing traffic at the intersection of Old Hook and Kinderkamack roads Sunday afternoon because the traffic light was still out.

 Lt. Gregg Hackbarth said more than half the homes were without power Sunday. He said many side streets were closed or partially closed with numerous branches and trees down.

Police encourage residents to report downed power lines, but warn not to go near or touch them.

The township's emergency shelter reached its capacity Sunday afternoon. Residents are encouraged to go to the county shelter, which opens at 6 p.m. They can go to the Rothman Center at 140 University Plaza Drive, Hackensack. Click here for directions.

in Washington Township has power and is open for business, a representative reported Sunday. in Westwood is also open.

Governor Christie declared a state of emergency Saturday night because of the dangerous conditions.

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