NJ winter storm State of Emergency as blizzard hits

NEW JERSEY - New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy issued a State of Emergency for the nor'easter winter storm that could bring well more than a foot of snow to portions of the state by Saturday evening.

The order went into effect at 5 p.m. Friday, and includes a commercial vehicle travel restriction on multiple highways.

Gov. Murphy urged residents to stay home if possible, and leave roads empty. Murphy had asked that residents stock up before snow began to fall.

"The anticipated winter storm is forecasted to bring heavy snowfall and high wind gusts statewide, with blizzard conditions in some areas of New Jersey," said Governor Murphy. "Road crews will be deployed throughout the state for salting and snow plowing purposes. Residents should take extreme caution, stay off the roads, remain vigilant, and follow all safety protocols."

New Jersey snow preps

The winter storm is expected to leave parts of New Jersey blanketed in up to 18 inches of snow, with dangerous blizzard conditions. FOX 5 NY takes a look at how residents are getting ready.

The snow began falling in New Jersey around 7 p.m. Friday, with flakes continuing to fall into Saturday afternoon. The worst of the storm is expected to be until 11 a.m. on Saturday.

BLIZZARD WARNING

Blowing snow could create potential issues with travel and limit visibility. NJ Blizzard Warnings are posted for coastal counties.

Communities close to the shore could see up to 16 inches of snow. In coastal areas of southern New Jersey more than 10" of snow had fallen by dawn on Saturday.

Interior areas of New Jersey could see 7-10 inches.

NY and NJ declare State of Emergency ahead of winter storm

Snow will get steadier and heavier overnight tonight, bringing possible blizzard conditions to some parts of the region as a nor'easter blows into the area.

In Ocean City, Mayor Jay Gillian pre-emptively addressed an enduring peeve of snowbound homeowners: plow trucks burying driveways that residents had just dug out of.

"The plows cannot work without creating snow banks," he dryly reminded in a post on the city’s website. "You may have to clear your driveway or parked vehicle more than once."

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