The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, in coordination with the National Weather Service, is monitoring a major coastal storm expected to impact the State today and tomorrow. State emergency management officials anticipate coastal flooding, high wind conditions, snow, sleet, and even blizzard conditions in the northeast corner of the State. The State Emergency Operations Center will be activated at 7:00 a.m.today, and will remain open as long as necessary to meet anticipated challenging conditions.
“This is a dangerous storm; and we ask motorists to be careful while driving. There is also the potential for downed trees and wires because of wind conditions,” said Colonel Rick Fuentes, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police and State Director of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management. “Tomorrow night’s evening commute will be treacherous throughout much of New Jersey.”
The following is a brief list of general winter weather preparedness tips for motorists:
In your car: All cars should be equipped with road maps or GPS, a cell phone, a shovel, a windshield scraper, a towrope, booster cables, and a brightly colored cloth to use as a distress signal. A bag of sand or non-clumping cat litter to spread under tires if stuck in snow is also recommended.
Before you go: Drivers should inform someone that they are taking a trip, where they are going, the routes that will be traveled and when they are expected to return. Upon reaching their destination, drivers should call to report arrival. If traveling a long distance, please remember to fill up on fuel prior to making your trip. While traveling, stop frequently to refill the fuel tank. The breaks will help drivers stay alert.
On the road: Follow the rules of the road and adhere to the following guidelines:
-Always buckle your seat belt.
-Brake properly to avoid skidding. If driving on snow or ice, start slowly and brake gently. Begin braking early when approaching an intersection.
-If the vehicle starts to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes. Steer into the direction of the skid until regaining traction, and then straighten the vehicle. For vehicles with antilock brakes, apply steady pressure.
-Visibility and speed:
– In fog, drive with headlights set on dim or use fog lights.
– In rain, fog, snow or sleet, stay within the limits of your vision. If it is too difficult to see, pull off the road and stop.
– Drive slowly and increase following distance. Vehicle speed should adjust for conditions and match the flow of traffic.
– Watch for slick spots. Be physically and mentally prepared to react.
Maintain situational awareness about weather events.