Friday Afternoon Storm Update: Faster Arrival, More Snow for Central NJ

blizzard area jan 22 2016The Nor’easter is expected to be even stronger than originally anticipated and will arrive in New Jersey earlier than predicted.

Most of New Jersey is expected to see double-digit snow totals this weekend. Blizzard conditions will start Friday night, not early Saturday morning as was previously predicted. The storm track has moved to the north.

The Mercer County area is expected to be hit the hardest in New Jersey this weekend, with up to 20 inches of snow or even more possible.  The first snowflakes are expected in southwestern New Jersey by sunset. The snow is then intensify rapidly and accumulate quickly. Our list of weekend event cancellations can be found here. We will update the list regularly.

The projected peak snowfall period for Central New Jersey when snow will fall the fastest and travel will be nearly impossible is 11 p.m. Friday to 5 p.m. Saturday.One to three inches of snow per hour is possible at times, according to the National Weather Service.

The peak period in South Jersey is expected to start at 7 p.m. Friday. In the northern part of the state, the peak period is expected to begin at 3 a.m. Saturday and end at 10 p.m.

Winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 60 miles along the coast are possible. Visibility will be near zero, in other words blizzard conditions. Drifting and power outages are possible because of the wind.

PSE&G will have additional personnel and equipment on hand for this storm, including additional tree crews.

Be cautious if you see downed lines. Downed wires should always be considered “live’. Do not approach or drive over a downed line. Report downed lines to 1-855-BIZ-PSEG.

Before the storm, sign up for PSE&G’s My Account at www.pseg.com . Bookmark the page on a cell phone and log-in to report outages, and to get restoration status updates. Outages may also be reported at 800-436-PSEG (7734).

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, do not run any gasoline powered engine, including generators and snow blowers, in a garage or any other enclosed space.

Other ways you can prepare for the storm:

Remove or otherwise secure all outside materials which may become airborne in high gusts.

– Fill up gas tanks and keep a blanket, flashlight and  first aid/emergency kit in car.

– Charge your cell phones, tablets and other mobile devices before the storm.

– Make sure you have a three-day supply of non-perishable food on hand and a manual can opener.

-Keep cell phones charged and flashlights handy in the event of a power outage.

-If you own a generator, check that it is in working order now. Make sure outdoor generator location is properly ventilated.

– Store potable and flushing water, keeping food, medications, batteries & other needed supplies on hand. One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days is recommended.

-If you have a fire hydrant in front of your house, do not cover it with snow. Keep it clear if you can.

-Call 911 if you have a fire, police or medical emergency.

-Do not park on public roads. In most towns your car could be towed.