Gov. Murphy Closes State Gov't As NJ Prepares For Winter Weather

Gov. Phil Murphy closed state government offices on a "rolling basis" Tuesday because of a winter storm that's impacting New Jersey.

Murphy said he directed state government offices to close on a rolling basis beginning at 1:30 p.m. He said it was "not an easy decision to make" but the governor said he was preparing for a storm that will produce more than snow.

Murphy noted that temperatures are supposed to drop, and strong winds will blow, creating potential havoc for commuters on icy, slippery roads. Power outages could happen, too

"We think that will ensure a smooth process for the afternoon and evening commutes," Murphy said during a press conference.

Here is the press conference that addressed how the state is preparing for the harsh weather, during which Murphy encouraged people to stay off the roads:

A growing number of school districts, meanwhile, have closed aleady as New Jersey prepares for a snowstorm that could pile 5 to 6 inches of snow in some areas, and rain in others.

Then it's all supposed to freeze and turn much of New Jersey, forecasters say, into a "skating rink."

More early dismissals, delayed openings and closures could happen on Wednesday morning at New Jersey schools. Read more: New Jersey School Closings/Delays List For Wednesday.

A winter weather advisory remains in place for eight New Jersey counties – Sussex, Morris, Mercer, Warren, Hunterdon, Somerset and eastern Passaic and Bergen counties. A hazardous weather outlook was issued for the rest of the state.

A snow accumulation of 3 to 6 inches is in the forecast in six New Jersey counties where the advisory was issued, with much of it falling after 2 p.m. on Tuesday. Two inches or less – plus rain – will fall elsewhere, accoding to the National Weather Service.

Read more: New Jersey Snow Totals, Town-By-Town, On Tuesday And Wednesday

The advisory will be in effect until Wednesday at midnight before temperatures drop into the 17-degree range, with wind gusts of 35 mph hitting New Jersey on Wednesday morning, afternoon and evening. Wind chills could drop to -20 in North Jersey.

Here are the estaimated snow totals:

The New Jersey Department of Transportation issued a "Winter Weather Congestion Alert," saying the weather may result in difficult driving conditions, particularly during the evening commute as temperatures drop.

NJDOT will be deploying the resources in advance of the storm and is coordinating its response with NJ Transit and the toll road authorities to "ensure the best response for New Jerseyans," the department said.

The department and its transportation and law enforcement partners are recommending motorists:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm
• Consider telecommuting, if possible
• Plan extra travel time
• If you are driving and road conditions deteriorate, pull off somewhere safe and wait it out
• Watch for black ice on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.
• Always stay clear of plowing and spreading trucks. If they are behind you, let them pass.

NJDOT will be using message signs throughout the storm to provide updates. Once conditions improve, NJDOT will lift the "Winter Weather Congestion Alert."

Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT's traffic information website www.511nj.org for real-time travel information and for NJDOT news and updates follow us on the NJDOT Facebook page or on Twitter @NJDOT_info.

Here is the forecast:

• Tuesday night: Snow (possible rain or light snow south of I-78), mainly before 9pm. Low around 17. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.
• Wednesday: A chance of snow or rain showers, mainly between 10am and 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 21. Wind chill values as low as zero. West wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.
• Wednesday night: Mostly clear, with a low around -2. Wind chill values as low as -15. West wind 13 to 17 mph.
• Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 11. West wind 13 to 15 mph.

Photos courtesy of Governor Murphy and Annashae Davis