New Jersey declares state of emergency: All power outages, travel bans, blizzard warnings as nor’easter intensifies

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.”

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.

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.

Also read: Massachusetts power outage map: Severe snowstorm causes heavy snow cover, thousands without power; list here

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.