New Jersey could see 10 to 20 inches of snow, along with gusts up to 50 miles per hour.
Governor Sherrill was in Maplewood, urging New Jersey residents to get out and stock up on necessities. It will become a lot more difficult and dangerous from Sunday into Monday.
The Governor has her first big storm under her belt, but acknowledged there are additional risks associated with this storm due to blizzard conditions and heavy winds expected.
It is hard to believe the serenity of a much-needed balmy Saturday will soon be broken by the blizzard conditions looming Sunday.
Governor Sherrill says don't be fooled.
"I said it last time and I'll say it again. We need to be prepared. We need to be safe. Get water, get all of your charging done with your devices. Stay off the roads. We're getting a lot of snow and extremely high winds Sunday night to Monday morning. Stay off the roads," she said.
Sherrill declared a State of Emergency effective at 12 p.m. Sunday in anticipation of the severe winter storm - expected to cause hazardous conditions across the Garden State with wind gusts up to 55 miles per hour, heavy snow and coastal flooding.
Winter Storm Live Updates: Please visit our winter storm blog for the very latest information.
There is a particular concern for coastal communities expected to be hit the hardest.
State officials are warning New Jersey residents to stay off the roads Sunday into Monday as emergency crews prepare for an arduous task ahead: keeping the Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike clear in the face of rapidly accumulating snow. State police and first responders are ready.
"We also have search and rescue personnel available should the need be. This includes snowmobiles, high-wheeled vehicles, which all enhance our response capabilities to help any problems anywhere throughout our state," NJ State Police Acting Superintendent Lieutenant Colonel David Sierotowicz said.
It is a big reason to stay off the roads - so emergency responders can get to people in need.
The state emergency operations center will be activated at Level 2 beginning Sunday at noon to monitor issues across the state. Power outages are a concern with high winds.
The governor says to work from home on Monday if you can.
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