Newark, New Jersey – As New Jersey approaches the official start of winter, residents in Newark and across the state are being reminded to prepare homes and plumbing for a long stretch of cold weather as the winter solstice arrives Sunday, ushering in the coldest season of the year.
According to the National Weather Service and New Jersey emergency management officials, repeated freezing nights significantly increase the risk of frozen and burst pipes, particularly in older homes common throughout Newark. City officials say unheated basements, crawl spaces, and plumbing located along exterior walls are most vulnerable as temperatures remain near or below freezing overnight.
Across New Jersey, residents are encouraged to insulate exposed pipes, seal drafts around doors and vents, and maintain steady indoor heat, even during overnight hours or when away. In Newark, public safety agencies also advise opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate and letting faucets drip slowly during the coldest parts of the night to reduce pressure inside pipes.
State fire officials continue to stress avoiding open flames or fuel-powered heaters to thaw frozen pipes due to fire risks. As Newark and New Jersey move deeper into winter following Sunday’s solstice, additional cold-weather advisories may be issued as prolonged winter conditions take hold statewide.
