In preparation for the snowstorm on Sunday, Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey has declared a State of Emergency. Additionally, NJDOT and PennDOT have issued several highway restrictions for vehicles throughout the duration of the snowfall.
Several townships and municipalities in the area have proactively implemented snow emergency measures. This includes declaring snow emergencies and imposing parking restrictions on snow emergency routes. These measures have an impact on both residents and visitors who have parked their vehicles along these routes. The communities that have implemented these measures are as follows:
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- Malvern
- West Chester
- Downingtown
- Warrington
Northern New Jersey is forecasted to receive around 8-12 inches of snowfall, while counties closer to Philadelphia may see up to 5 inches. Moreover, after the snowfall ceases, temperatures are expected to plummet to dangerous levels.
Governor Murphy has declared a State of Emergency for all 21 counties in the state due to an upcoming winter storm. In his announcement, he emphasized the severity of the weather conditions, stating that heavy snow is expected followed by dangerously low temperatures lasting from Monday through Wednesday. He urged all residents to prioritize their safety by taking necessary precautions and advised against unnecessary travel whenever possible.
You can find more information about the winter weather hazards and safety in New Jersey on their website, available here.
Vehicle restrictions: NJDOT has announced commercial vehicle restrictions on several interstates, including I76, I676, and I295. These restrictions apply to the entire lengths of these highways.
According to their statement, the restrictions do apply to the following:
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- All tractor trailers (exceptions as listed in the Administrative Order)
- Empty straight CDL-weighted trucks
- Passenger vehicles pulling trailers
- Recreational vehicles
- Motorcycles
According to their statement, the restrictions do not extend to the New Jersey Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway, and the Atlantic City Expressway.
PennDOT established vehicle restrictions on Pennsylvania highways, which include:
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- I-76 from the PA Turnpike to the New Jersey border.
- PA Turnpike I-76 from Morgantown (Exit 298) to the New Jersey border.
- I-95, entire length.
- PA Turnpike I-95, entire length.
- PA Turnpike I-276, entire length.
- I-295, entire length.
- I-476 from PA Turnpike I-476 to I-95.
- PA Turnpike I-476 Northeast Extension from Mid-County (Exit 20) to Lehigh Valley (Exit 56).
- I-676, entire length.
For additional details on the restrictions, please visit the PennDOT website here.
If you find yourself needing to drive during the storm, it’s important to have a snow emergency plan and be well-prepared. Ensure you have essential supplies such as blankets, extra gloves, a cell phone charger, and windshield scrapers. Don’t forget to include any necessary medications or pet supplies. While it’s strongly recommended to stay off the roads, being adequately equipped can help ensure your safety if you have no other choice but to venture out.
