New Jersey Winter Storm and Arctic Cold Push Death Toll to 20, State Officials Confirm
The state of New Jersey reported at least 20 deaths after a strong winter storm and extremely frigid temperatures in late January. Tuesday afternoon’s new count exceeds the previous 17 dead.
The New Jersey Department of Health says the fatalities are preliminary until forensic pathologists determine them. Authorities tied the deaths to harsh winter weather that dropped more than a foot of snow to parts of the state and wind chills that made temperatures feel 5 to 15 degrees below zero.
According to state health officials, several weather-related deaths occurred in northern New Jersey counties. The victims were 25–90. While details are scarce, officials said most people were found outdoors, including in automobiles, outside homes, or unheated porches. A few deaths were caused by slips and falls and substance usage in the intense cold.
One documented occurrence occurred in Verona, when a 67-year-old Essex County man died while clearing snow during the storm. Officials said the storm made regular tasks unsafe across the state.
The January 24 weekend winter storm impacted normal life. Up to 6,000 power outages were recorded in New Jersey. Over 1,100 flights at Newark Liberty International Airport were canceled, and public transportation was suspended. As it traveled through the region, many more flights were grounded countrywide.
State administrators warned citizens to take measures as temperatures remained dangerously low after the storm. Governor Mikie Sherrill recommended New Jersey residents to stay home, avoid needless travel, and observe safety guidelines throughout the storm and cold period. Ice on roadways and sidewalks continued to pose concerns after snowfall, officials said.
Another weak system brought light freezing rain and drizzle to northern and central New Jersey, prompting more National Weather Service winter weather advisories. Early morning commutes could be affected by icy roads, bridges, and sidewalks, forecasters warned.
The New Jersey Department of Health notified people about statewide warming facilities and shelters due to high weather. Officials advised those in need to use state-funded programs. Unsafe inhabitants were accommodated by shelters’ longer hours.
Older folks and those facing housing instability are especially vulnerable to extreme cold, according to health officials. During extreme cold, officials advised homeowners to check on neighbors, dress in layers, and limit outdoor time.
In neighboring New York City, cold-related mortality increased, highlighting the Arctic air mass’s broad influence. Cold-related deaths increased to 18 in the city, according to officials. Regionwide public officials emphasized staying home and safe indoor heating.
Although temperatures have moderated since the cold spell, officials nevertheless advise care as winter persists. State officials say the ultimate New Jersey death toll may change pending medical examinations.
The recent storm shows how swiftly winter weather can be deadly. As winter continues in New Jersey, state officials watch and advise.
Sources:
New Jersey Department of Health
Office of the Governor of New Jersey
National Weather Service
Local New Jersey authorities statements
