New Jersey Acting Governor Tahesha Way has declared a State of Emergency for all 21 counties of the state, effective Friday, December 26, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. The declaration is in response to a severe winter storm forecast to bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain across the region.
State of Emergency Details
The State of Emergency, issued under Executive Order No. 409, became active at 1:00 p.m. on December 26, 2025. This order encompasses all 21 counties of New Jersey and will remain in effect until emergency conditions are determined to have subsided.
Weather Outlook
Forecasts indicate the winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Snow accumulations are projected to reach 5 to 8 inches in various parts of the state. Temperatures are anticipated to remain below freezing throughout the upcoming weekend.
Transportation Measures and Advisories
The New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) has activated crews and contractors in preparation for the inclement weather.
- Commercial Vehicle Restriction: A restriction on certain commercial vehicles will be implemented at 3:00 p.m. for specific roadways:
- Affected Vehicles: Tractor-trailers, empty CDL trucks, recreational vehicles (RVs), motorcycles, and passenger vehicles towing trailers.
- Affected Roadways: I-78, I-80, I-280, I-287, and Route 440.
- Travel Advice: Residents have been advised to avoid non-essential travel during the storm. Drivers are encouraged to monitor road conditions and closures and adhere to all safety protocols.
Public Information Resources
Residents seeking official weather updates and safety guidelines are directed to ready.nj.gov. Additionally, the public is encouraged to consult regional U.S. National Weather Service advisories:
- Northern New Jersey and New York Metro Area: U.S. National Weather Service New York, N.Y. (weather.gov/okx)
- Central and Southern New Jersey: U.S. National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly (weather.gov/phi)