TRENTON – In preparation for Winter Storm Stella 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 severe winter storm is expected to produce tonight through Tuesday afternoon significant snow accumulations, winds gusting up to 60 miles per hour, freezing temperatures, widespread coastal flooding and hazardous whiteout travel conditions,” stated Christie in a release. “During these threatening conditions, I urge all New Jerseyans to remain off the roads so our first responders and public safety officers can safely and efficiently handle emergency situations.”
New Jersey roads are expected to be impassable due to significant amounts of heavy, blowing, and drifting snow, low visibility and whiteout conditions, with the highest impact expected from late Monday night through Tuesday afternoon. Forecasted snow accumulations from five to more than 20 inches are expected in some areas of the state.
Due to the severe winter storm, the State of New Jersey has authorized the closing of state offices March 14 for all non-essential employees. Essential employees should report to work on their regular schedule.
Road conditions will be available at the state 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.
