Full Breakdown
New Jersey Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Winter Storm
12/3/2025, 12:42:59 PM
Overview of the Winter Storm Situation
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency effective at 5 a.m. on December 2, 2025, for five counties in northwestern New Jersey—Hunterdon, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, and Warren—due to a significant winter storm expected to bring hazardous weather conditions. The storm is forecasted to deliver a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, impacting travel and safety on the roads.
Weather Forecast and Expected Impacts
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter weather advisories for the affected counties, predicting snowfall totals ranging from 1 to 6 inches, with Sussex County expected to receive the highest amounts. The storm is anticipated to begin early Tuesday morning, with snow transitioning to freezing rain by midday, particularly along the I-95 corridor. Areas south and west of I-95 are likely to experience primarily rain, with total precipitation amounts reaching up to 1.25 inches.
The NWS has warned that even lower snowfall amounts could lead to significant travel disruptions, especially during the Tuesday morning rush hour. Winds are expected to gust up to 35 mph, which may exacerbate hazardous conditions.
Official Statements and Emergency Preparations
Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of caution, urging all drivers in the affected areas to remain alert and follow safety protocols. He stated, “Starting early tomorrow morning, we will experience potentially significant winter weather resulting in hazardous conditions in the northwestern part of our state.” The New Jersey Department of Transportation has activated crews to prepare for the storm, ensuring that roadways are salted and plowed as needed.
School Closures and Community Response
In anticipation of the storm, numerous school districts across the affected counties have announced closures or delayed openings. This includes districts in Morris and Sussex counties, where the storm's impact is expected to be most severe. Local authorities are coordinating efforts to clear roads and ensure public safety, with many residents preparing for the storm by stocking up on supplies.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the proactive measures, some criticism has emerged regarding the accuracy of snowfall predictions. Dan Zarrow, Chief Meteorologist for New Jersey 101.5, labeled the governor's forecast of 3 to 7 inches in central and northern New Jersey as “misinformed and just wrong,” suggesting that the actual impacts may not align with the state’s emergency declaration.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Forecasts regarding snowfall amounts have varied, with some sources indicating that Sussex County could see 3 to 6 inches, while others suggest lower totals of 1 to 2 inches in surrounding areas. The NWS has noted that the exact track of the storm system remains uncertain, which could significantly alter precipitation types and accumulation totals.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
As the winter storm approaches, New Jersey officials continue to monitor conditions closely, urging residents to stay informed and avoid unnecessary travel. The state of emergency will remain in effect until it is determined that the hazardous conditions have subsided. Following the storm, temperatures are expected to drop, raising concerns about potential black ice on roadways. Residents are advised to prepare for ongoing winter weather challenges in the coming days.
