N.J. Gov. Mikie Sherrill declares State of Emergency due to winter storm

N.J. Gov. Mikie Sherrill declares State of Emergency

Gov. Mikie Sherrill has declared a State of Emergency throughout New Jersey due to the incoming winter storm.

NEW JERSEY - Gov. Mikie Sherrill has declared a State of Emergency throughout New Jersey due to the incoming winter storm. 

"I've just declared a state of emergency for all 21 counties here in New Jersey as we prepare for dangerous winter weather conditions including heavy and widespread snow, freezing temperatures and wind gusts of up to 30 miles per hour," said the governor.

Stay connected with FOX LOCAL. For 24/7 winter storm coverage—Download Now.

What is a state of emergency?

Dig deeper:

A state of emergency is a formal declaration by a governor that conditions are severe enough to require state-level coordination and resources to support local response efforts.

The declaration allows state agencies to work together to prevent or reduce damage, hardship and threats to public safety during events such as winter storms.

MORE: FIND THE LATEST WINTER STORM FORECAST HERE

What the declaration actually does

When a state of emergency is declared, it allows state officials to coordinate and deploy resources more quickly.

This can include activating emergency operations centers, positioning snowplows and road crews, coordinating state police and transportation agencies and preparing shelters or warming centers if needed.

The declaration can also help position a state to request federal assistance if conditions worsen and exceed state and local capabilities.

What it doesn’t automatically do

A state of emergency does not automatically mean people are required to stay home.

According to emergency management officials, the declaration alone does not:

• Ban travel or close roads
• Shut down schools or businesses
• Impose curfews or restrict movement

Those actions require separate, specific orders, which are typically announced if conditions become dangerous.

How residents should think about it

What you can do:

Emergency management officials say a state of emergency is best viewed as a government readiness tool, not a sign of panic.

For residents, it’s a signal to stay informed, follow weather forecasts, heed travel advisories and prepare for possible disruptions, especially as winter storms can evolve quickly.

Stay ahead of the snow with FOX 29’s expert meteorologists, streaming LIVE on FOX LOCAL. Get the latest on the forecast, snow potential, and preparation tips—before the storm and all weekend long. 

Download FOX LOCAL for 24/7 weather coverage on your smart TV and mobile devices.