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A powerful winter storm continues to dump heavy snow across New Jersey on Sunday (January 25), with accumulations reaching up to 9.5 inches or more in some areas as the Garden State faces significant travel disruptions.
Snow began falling early Sunday morning, with substantial accumulations reported statewide by mid-afternoon. In North Jersey, Mount Arlington has received 9.5 inches, Sparta 7.3 inches, Franklin Lakes 7.5 inches, and Passaic 6.5 inches. Central Jersey has seen similar totals with Newark reporting 9 inches, Union 7.5 inches, and South River 7 inches. Southern regions aren't being spared either, with Toms River receiving 8 inches, Cherry Hill 7 inches, and Cape May 5 inches.
Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a State of Emergency across all 21 counties, effective since 5:00 p.m. Saturday. "Beginning Saturday evening and continuing into Monday, New Jersey is expected to see heavy snowfall and severe conditions, and my top priority is the safety of our residents," said Governor Sherrill in a statement. "I urge all New Jerseyans to stay home, avoid travel, and follow all safety protocols during the storm."
The New Jersey Department of Transportation has taken significant precautions, including an Emergency Traffic Regulation Order that temporarily reduces all posted speed limits to 35 miles per hour on Interstate and State highways. This reduction, which began at 12:01 a.m. Sunday, applies to major roadways including the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, and Atlantic City Expressway, according to NJDOT Acting Commissioner Joe Bertoni.
A commercial vehicle travel restriction is also in effect, prohibiting tractor trailers, empty straight CDL-weighted trucks, passenger vehicles pulling trailers, recreational vehicles, and motorcycles on major highways.
Public transportation has been severely impacted, with NJ TRANSIT services temporarily suspended systemwide. "With the winter storm approaching, we are keeping safety as our top priority. That's why we are working diligently to prepare the transit system to maintain operations for as long as conditions safely allow, but customers should also prepare for potential service disruptions," said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri.
State offices will remain closed on Monday (January 26), though employees designated as Weather Essential are instructed to report for their normal shifts.
Forecasts suggest snow accumulations could reach at least 12 inches across all regions of the state before the storm concludes early on Monday, with wind gusts up to 30 miles per hour creating additional hazards.
Officials continue to urge residents to stay home, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor local forecasts and emergency announcements as the winter storm progresses.