New Jersey – As residents across the state seek winter scenery and photo-worthy moments to share with family and friends, safety officials are warning that ice conditions remain dangerous on frozen lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams despite sustained cold temperatures.
According to the National Weather Service, ice that appears solid is often too thin or uneven to safely support a person. Under ideal conditions, ice generally needs to reach at least 3 inches thick to support a single adult on foot. Officials say many bodies of water across New Jersey have not consistently reached that threshold, particularly due to fluctuating temperatures, snow cover, and moving water beneath the ice.
Ice strength is also affected by body weight, movement, and surface conditions. Heavier individuals place greater stress on ice, increasing the likelihood of sudden failure, especially where ice is layered, cracked, or weakened by currents. Ice that holds one person may fail moments later under another.
Photos and videos circulating online in recent days show people standing or walking on frozen ponds and lakes across northern and central New Jersey. Weather officials warn that falling through ice can quickly become life-threatening. Cold-water shock can cause immediate loss of breath control and muscle strength, often preventing people from pulling themselves out. Hypothermia can begin within minutes.
Ice hazards extend beyond water bodies. Sidewalks, parking lots, and untreated roads may remain slick during early morning and evening hours, increasing the risk of slips and falls.
For students, families, and outdoor enthusiasts, officials stress that no ice is ever guaranteed safe, regardless of temperature, appearance, or how many others appear to be standing on it.
Residents are urged to stay off all frozen ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams, avoid shortcuts across ice-covered areas, and keep children and pets well away from frozen surfaces as winter conditions continue statewide.
