Freehold, New Jersey – Roads across central and coastal New Jersey could become impassable by late Sunday morning as a blizzard barrels into Monmouth, Ocean and southeastern Burlington counties with up to 20 inches of snow and wind gusts reaching 55 mph.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, a Blizzard Warning takes effect at 10 a.m. Sunday and continues through 6 p.m. Monday. Snowfall rates may exceed 2 inches per hour Sunday afternoon and evening, with visibility frequently dropping below a quarter mile in blowing and drifting snow.
The heaviest impacts are expected from Freehold and Jackson east to Sandy Hook and Long Beach Island. The Garden State Parkway, Route 9 and Route 72 toward the barrier islands could see rapid accumulation and whiteout conditions, especially on bridges and elevated stretches. Wharton State Forest and southeastern Burlington County may experience significant drifting in open areas.
Wind gusts near 55 mph could down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages. Officials urge residents to avoid non-essential travel, charge devices and prepare emergency kits with blankets, food and water. Drivers who become stranded should remain in their vehicles and call 511 for updated road conditions.
Conditions will deteriorate quickly after 10 a.m. Sunday and remain dangerous through the Monday evening commute. Additional advisories may follow as the storm strengthens.
