TRENTON – With Winter Storm Jonas expected to arrive in New Jersey tonight, Governor Chris Christie declared a State of Emergency, authorizing the State Director of Emergency Management to activate and coordinate the preparation, response and recovery efforts for the storm with all county and municipal emergency operations and governmental agencies. Commuters are asked to use extreme caution while traveling across the state.
“This weekend’s storm is expected to produce heavy snow and a variety of dangerous travel conditions throughout the state,” said Governor Chris Christie. “I’ve authorized state officials to continue all necessary actions, and we will monitor conditions throughout the remainder of the storm. I encourage all New Jerseyans to drive carefully and remain off the roads if possible so that our first responders and public safety officials can safely respond to any emergency situations.”
Starting Friday evening, New Jersey is expected to experience a severe winter storm with heavy snow, mixed precipitation, 25-45 mph winds with gusts up to 60 mph, and freezing temperatures throughout the State. A potential mixture of hazardous travel conditions, fallen trees and power outages, and coastal, stream, and river flooding are anticipated.
Road conditions will be available at the New Jersey Department of Transportation website at http://www.511nj.org/.
With regard to the general impact of a State of Emergency:
- An emergency declaration does not mean motorists will be ticketed for merely being on the roads, nor is “essential” personnel defined in the law.
- According to the Office of Emergency Management’s website: “The Governor’s declaration does not normally restrict citizen movements or activities. The State may limit access to affected areas due to concerns for public safety but will notify the public of these restrictions,” according to the Office of Emergency Management’s website. “The most important goal is to keep roadways clear of unnecessary traffic so emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and fire trucks, are free to travel.”
- The Governor’s declaration does not have an impact on private business owners’ decisions to open or close, or to pay their employees during a closure.
“Businesses must address hours of operation and compensation on an individual basis,” according to the state website. “Once a federal disaster is declared, employees unable to work may be eligible for unemployment assistance.”
For those needing to be out, be extra-safe, and do follow police directives.
