This afternoon, New Jersey reported an additional 9,601 confirmed positive tests, with 113 confirmed deaths reported. This week, the statewide positivity rate has dropped after the increase in positive cases from late-December to early-January, in addition to the decrease in the transmission rate which is currently at 0.58.
The Governor, NJ Department of Transportation Commissioner, Chief of Police, and the Board of Public Utilities President provided a briefing this morning on the impending winter storm. The Governor declared a State of Emergency, to be effective at 5pm this evening, and urged residents to remain in their homes through tomorrow. State employees will be dismissed at 3pm and offices will be closed.
There will also be a commercial vehicle travel restriction effective at 5pm. The Department of Transportation has been coordinating with surrounding northeastern states to ensure safety for interstate travel. Road crews will be out clearing and readying roadways, and residents are required to move aside for these vehicles. The NJ 511 service will also be available for travelers on DOT and toll roadways.
The State is preparing for a significant storm event, with snowfall totals expected to be 3 along the northwestern part of the state to 18 inches along the shore, with totals increasing as it moves southeast. A rare blizzard warning has been issued for Cape May, Atlantic, Monmouth, eastern Burlington, and Ocean Counties. Winds over 50 miles per hour are also expected which may result in down power lines, residents should report any fallen power lines and are urged not to approach. Most counties will be under a Code Blue given the low temperatures expected this evening, and warming centers will be available around the State and can be found at NJ211.org.
