New Jersey declares state of emergency: All power outages, travel bans, blizzard warnings as nor’easter intensifies
new jersey Declared Statewide state of emergency A strong northeasterly wind approached the region at noon on Sunday, causing heavy snow, strong winds in 21 counties and raising concerns about coastal flooding.
governor Mikey Sherrill An executive order was issued on Saturday to declare a state of emergency in the state, effective at 12 noon on Sunday, February 22, 2026, in response to what officials described as “blizzard conditions with wind gusts up to 55 mph, widespread snowfall, and potential coastal flooding.”
“Beginning tomorrow and continuing through Monday, we expect the winter storm to bring severe blizzard conditions to our state,” Sherrill said in a statement. “We urge all New Jerseyans to remain cautious during the storm, stay off the roadways, and follow all safety protocols.”
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherill issues advisory
During a press conference on Sunday, Sherrill reiterated her advice to residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay informed about the latest situation through Ready.NJ.gov.
State officials and regional forecasts indicate snowfall totals could exceed 10 inches across the state, with coastal amounts ranging from 18 to 24 inches. AccuWeather is forecasting blizzard conditions along the Jersey Shore, which could include wind gusts approaching 50 mph, localized flooding and beach erosion.
New Jersey Blizzard Warning
blizzard warning The order was issued for much of the state as conditions worsened Sunday afternoon and into the evening.
In Atlantic City, WPVI reported wind-blown snow impairing visibility and accumulating quickly on streets and boardwalks.
“I’ve never done this before,” Jonathan Mitchell of Lawnside, New Jersey, told 6ABC. “This is my first time going out to work in a snowstorm.”
“Well, I heard there was a blizzard and I didn’t want to miss it!” said Bud Corey of Springfield, Delaware County.
New Jersey travel ban
As the storm intensified, new jersey The State Police Office of Emergency Management announced a mandatory travel ban effective Sunday at 9 p.m.
During this time, all vehicles that do not qualify for the exemption are prohibited from operating on state, county, municipal and interstate highways. The New Jersey Turnpike, however, is not included in the ban.
Exemptions are granted to emergency responders, public works teams, health care professionals, utility workers, members of the news media, essential supply chain operations personnel and individuals in need of emergency medical care.
