WEATHER
New Jersey declares state of emergency: everything I need to know if I am in NJ
Governor Phil Murphy made the announcement as the state prepares to be buffeted with a dangerous weather forecast.
New Jersey residents are set to be under a state of emergency. Going into effect in all 21 counties at 5 p.m. today, Governor Phil Murphy announced the measures on Monday in response to the storms that are approaching New England.
“Beginning tomorrow morning and continuing through Wednesday morning, we are expecting one to four inches of heavy rain, strong winds, and potential inland and coastal flooding,” Murphy said in a release.
What does a state of emergency mean?
When a state of emergency is declared, it means that the government has officially acknowledged a situation that requires special measures to protect the public and maintain order. The declaration grants extra powers to the governor allowing them to take actions without consulting the state legislature.
This is useful during emergencies to avoid bureaucracy which could disrupt the fast action of government needed in a time of crisis.
Everything you need to know in New Jersey
The decree itself does not change your day to day life significantly. However, the effects of the storm are severe and personal safety has been emphasised.
“This storm will exacerbate the effects of the inclement conditions we experienced in December and this past weekend and may precede another storm Friday night,” Gov. Murphy continued. “As always, I urge all New Jerseyans — including residents in our coastal and riverine communities — to follow all safety protocols and remain off the roads unless absolutely necessary.”
As per the announcement, the Governor encourages residents of New Jersey to visit ready.nj.gov for important weather updates and safety information.