The significant winter storm that struck South Jersey on Sunday is finally beginning to taper off, but not before delivering heavy snow followed by a shifting mix of sleet, rain, and freezing rain that made roads treacherous across the region. Officials across the state and in local communities urged residents to take the storm seriously as conditions deteriorated through the day. A flurry of closings for Monday have already been announced.
In the lead-up to the storm, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency to mobilize resources and coordinate response efforts, urging residents to avoid travel if possible. “It’s been a while since New Jersey faced a storm like this,” Sherrill said in a press briefing before the storm hit. “We’re tough here, but we have to be safe.”
Throughout the storm, transportation officials warned that road conditions could remain difficult even as precipitation changed form. Acting Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation Joe Bertoni said state crews were treating major highways and that speed limits had been temporarily lowered to help reduce crashes. “I urge all New Jerseyans to stay home, avoid travel, and follow all safety protocols during the storm,” Bertoni said as the storm progressed.
Before the snow changed to a wintry mix during the afternoon, snow totals in South Jersey were notable: Buena Vista Townshipreported about 6.7 inches, Hammonton saw 6 inches, and Atlantic City International Airport measured nearly 5.9 inches before the precipitation turned to sleet and rain. In Ocean City, observers noted around 6 inches before the changeover, and Cape May had close to 5 inches on the ground.
The storm’s lingering ice and rain late Sunday make cleanup and travel a continuing challenge. Local emergency management teams continue to work with precipitation still falling. Colder temperatures after midnight increase the likelihood of icy and dangerous roads on Monday. Listen to News Talk 1400 & 92.3 WOND for reliable local weather information around the clock.
