Newark, NJ – Officials across New Jersey are urging residents to begin winter preparation today, stressing that freezing rain and ice storms pose a greater risk than snowfall in the months ahead. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), ice accumulation can quickly damage trees, powerlines, and roadways across both North and Central Jersey, often resulting in prolonged outages.
According to NOAA, even a thin layer of ice can overload weakened branches and snap utility lines, especially in densely populated neighborhoods lined with older trees. With temperatures expected to fluctuate throughout the week, emergency managers say now is the ideal time to complete essential winter prep steps.
According to the National Weather Service, residents should begin by trimming weak or damaged branches near homes, driveways, and sidewalks. Branches that appear stable in mild weather can fail quickly once coated in ice. NOAA also warns drivers not to lift windshield wipers before storms, as they may freeze in place and break; keeping them lowered and covered is recommended.
Officials advise families to maintain at least a week’s supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and important prescriptions. Ice storms can disrupt major transportation routes—including I-95, the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, and Route 22—making travel difficult or dangerous. Residents are also urged not to park vehicles under trees, where ice-coated limbs may fall unexpectedly.
To stay connected during potential outages, emergency managers recommend fully charging phones, power banks, flashlights, and essential devices today. Homeowners with generators should store extra gasoline safely and conduct a test run before winter storms develop. Stocking up on rock salt or ice melt can also help reduce slip hazards around walkways and entrances.
“Ice storms can cause widespread disruption across New Jersey,” the NWS said. “Starting prep today is the best way to protect your household this winter.”
