NJ Governor Mikie Sherrill on Storm Response and Public Safety

Storm Preparedness and Response

• 💡 Governor Sherrill emphasized proactive preparation, having met with emergency managers before her inauguration to anticipate winter storms.
• 🚗 New Jersey residents made good decisions by staying off the roads, which allowed emergency responders and utility crews to operate effectively.
• ⚠️ The Governor urged everyone to stay off the roads tonight due to icing conditions and the ongoing efforts to salt and clear pathways.

Road Conditions and Utility Work

• ❄️ While southern parts of the state are seeing progress with plowing and salting, northern areas like Bergen County are still in the plowing phase.
• 🧊 Overnight low temperatures are expected to cause significant icing, creating dangerous conditions for motorists.
• ⚡ New Jersey's extensive overhead power lines make them vulnerable; mutual aid from states like Ohio has been brought in to manage potential power outages.

Power Outages and Community Support

• 🔌 A recent outage affecting 8,000 people in the central part of the state has seen over half of services restored quickly.
• ❤️ Residents are encouraged to check on seniors and vulnerable individuals who may be without power.
• 🏠 Information on warming centers and emergency resources can be found at 211.org.

Public Transit and Future Outlook

• 🚆 NJ Transit has suspended rail, bus, and light rail services due to the storm and icy conditions.
• ⏰ Buses are not expected to resume before the morning rush hour, with light and heavy rail service to follow later in the day.
• 🏠 Working from home or delaying commutes is the best option for tomorrow morning to avoid hazardous travel.

Governor's Perspective

• 🙏 Governor Sherrill expressed pride in the hard work of New Jerseyans, including DOT, state troopers, and utility crews, who are working in difficult conditions to ensure public safety.
• ⚠️ The primary concern moving forward is the heavy ice accumulating on trees and wires, which could cause significant problems.