New Jersey Snowstorm: State of Emergency Declared in Five Counties

Winter Storm Impact in Northwestern New Jersey

• ❄️ A significant winter storm brought slushy and icy conditions to northwestern New Jersey, making it a difficult "work snow day" rather than a fun snow day.
• ⚠️ Governor Murphy declared a state of emergency in five counties due to the heavy snowfall and ice accumulation.
• 🏫 Many schools were closed, and some people were able to avoid work, which helped keep traffic lighter for plows.

Snow Removal Efforts

• 🚜 DPW crews began working early, starting at 6:00 AM to prepare and by 8:00 AM were out salting the roads.
• 🤝 Water and sewer crews were trained to assist DPW, working together to clear the snow and ice.
• 🛣️ In Sparta, a local hardware store saw customers stocking up on rock salt and shovels the day before the storm.

Storm's Reach and Road Conditions

• 🌨️ Sussex County received a significant amount of snow and ice, while Middletown, Orange County, also experienced about 4 inches of snow.
• 🚗 Route 17 near Goshen became a slippery, snowy mess, leading to several spinouts and snarled traffic, though no serious injuries were reported.
• 🧊 DPW crews in Middletown planned to continue plowing and salting for several hours into the evening to ensure roads remained clear and to prevent icing.

Community and Weather Outlook

• 🏘️ Private plow operators were active in suburban parking lots following the storm.
• 🥶 The upcoming week is expected to be very cold, increasing the risk of refreezing on neighborhood streets.
• 🎉 Despite the work involved, children enjoyed the snow day, with some kids employing traditions like putting spoons in the freezer to try and ensure school cancellations.