New Jersey Orders Complete NJ Transit Shutdown as Powerful Blizzard Sweeps State
A major winter storm is bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and life-threatening travel conditions to New Jersey, therefore NJ Transit has been suspended. As experts warned of one of the worst winter storms, Governor Mikie Sherrill announced the decision Sunday. New Jersey has seen decades.
All NJ Transit train services will end at 9 p.m. Sunday under the emergency plan. Buses, light rail, and Access Link will end earlier at 6 p.m. Snow, wind gusts, and whiteout conditions are predicted to continue Sunday night into Monday morning, prompting the statewide transit suspension.
Governor Sherrill advised locals to avoid unnecessary travel. She warned that heavy, wet snow will increase the risk of falling limbs and trees. Blown and drifted snow from 60-mph winds may limit visibility to near zero. State officials warn these circumstances could make highways unsafe.
A statewide emergency began Sunday lunchtime. State agencies can better coordinate emergency response and prepare for storms under the order. As the storm increases, officials prioritize public safety.
New Jersey authorities have taken additional safety steps in addition to stopping public transportation. Statewide commercial vehicle bans begin at 3 p.m. Sunday on key roadways. Speed restrictions on other roads will drop to 35 mph starting at the same time. The goal is to reduce accidents and clear emergency routes.
The NWS has issued blizzard warnings for all 21 New Jersey counties. Snowfall forecasts range from 18 to 24 inches statewide, with some coastal areas receiving two feet or more. Storm peaks may bring three inches of snow each hour. Heavy snow and high gusts may cause coastal flooding, according to meteorologists.
Officials advised limiting travel to emergencies. The greatest snowfall is forecast overnight Sunday into early Monday, when traffic conditions will be worse. Blown snow can obscure road signs, lane markers, and other vehicles.
State leaders said the storm might be the worst to hit New Jersey since 1996, when the whole state received a blizzard warning. Every New Jersey region may get at least one foot of snow.
NJ Transit officials have not announced a resumption date. After the storm, weather, track and roadway inspections, and safety evaluations will determine service restoration.
Residents should stay home, minimize needless travel, and check state bulletins for changes. New Jersey emergency management staff prepare for outages, roadblocks, and other storm-related emergencies.
The Garden State is still at peril from this winter storm. Authorities believe keeping off the roads and obeying instructions will save lives during the blizzard.
Sources:
New Jersey Office of the Governor
NJ Transit
National Weather Service
New Jersey Office of Emergency Management
