Trenton, New Jersey – Travel across central New Jersey could grind to a halt before midday as a blizzard drops up to 25 inches of snow and drives wind gusts to 45 mph through 6 p.m. Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect from 10 a.m. Sunday through 6 p.m. Monday for Mercer, Middlesex, Morris and Somerset counties. Snow will intensify this afternoon, with the heaviest bands arriving tonight. Forecasters warn snowfall rates may exceed 2 inches per hour, while gusty winds whip snow into whiteout conditions and heavy drifting.
Major corridors including Interstate 287, Interstate 295, the New Jersey Turnpike and Route 1 are expected to deteriorate rapidly, especially on overpasses and open stretches near New Brunswick and Trenton. Conditions will likely worsen ahead of the Monday morning commute and remain dangerous into the evening drive. Even treated roads may quickly become snow covered again.
Wind-driven snow could snap tree limbs and lead to isolated power outages in Morristown, Somerville and surrounding communities. Officials urge residents to avoid non-essential travel, charge electronic devices and prepare for extended time indoors. If travel is unavoidable, carry a winter survival kit and check the latest road conditions by dialing 511.
Snow will taper during the day Monday, but gusty winds will continue to blow and drift snow into roadways. Additional advisories may follow as the storm exits late Monday.
