Massive Winter Storm Leaves Over 120,000 New Jersey Customers in the Dark as Blizzard Conditions Continue

Blizzard conditions left over 120,000 New Jersey households and businesses without power overnight and into Monday morning. Outages doubled within hours, demonstrating how swiftly the storm escalated across the state.

As of 7:05 a.m. Monday, utility companies reported extensive service outages. Jersey Central Power & Light reported 69,051 outages, up from 24,896 late Sunday night. Atlantic City Electric reported 48,872 outages, up from 19,159 the night before. With 4,554 consumers affected, PSEG reported an increase from 3,767. Orange & Rockland had 189 outages, down from 432. These numbers left almost 122,000 people without power in the state.

Snowfall has been a major issue for electricity restoration crews. Mount Holly’s National Weather Service office reported 18.5 inches of snow at 5 a.m. Monday. It accumulated over a foot in many other regions. Before the strongest snow bands arrived Sunday night, numerous communities had received 8–9 inches.

Winds exacerbated the damage. Winds between 25 and 35 mph are forecast throughout day. Gusts can bring down tree limbs and electricity wires, slowing restoration and endangering utility workers. National Weather Service blizzard warnings remain in place for all 21 New Jersey counties until 6 p.m.

Travel across the state is also hampered. A statewide travel ban began at 9 p.m. Sunday and ended at 7 a.m. Monday. Blown snow and reduced visibility have made roads dangerous. While conditions are severe, officials advise citizens to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

Sunday, Governor Mike Sherrill announced a state of emergency as the storm intensified. The proclamation helps the state government coordinate resources and respond rapidly to emergencies. State officials monitor conditions and assist local snow removal, emergency response, and power restoration agencies.

Public transit is affected. All NJ Transit services are paused as crews assess safety. Commuters are disrupted by the statewide suspension of train, bus, and light rail operations.

Wind and snow are hampering utility companies’ 24/7 electricity restoration efforts. Officials advise homeowners to report outages to their power suppliers and avoid downed power lines, which are dangerous.

Authorities warn that situations may change suddenly as the storm continues. Residents in New Jersey should follow weather updates and state emergency instructions while restoration operations continue.

Sources:
National Weather Service
State of New Jersey (Office of the Governor)
Jersey Central Power & Light
Public Service Electric & Gas
Atlantic City Electric
Orange & Rockland
NJ Transit