New Jersey has implemented mandatory statewide travel restrictions as a severe winter storm develops.
The restrictions, issued by the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, will be in effect from 9 p.m. Sunday, February 22, to 7 a.m. Monday, February 23. During this time, all non-exempt vehicles are prohibited from operating on state, county, city and interstate highways. Exceptions are the New Jersey Turnpike.
Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency at noon on Sunday, February 23 to protect public safety and conduct snow removal and emergency response.
The restrictions allow for limited exemptions for emergency and public safety vehicles, public transportation, snow removal and public works crews, utility vehicles, health care workers, government officials performing official duties, news media and vehicles transporting critical medical supplies. Other exemptions apply to workers supporting critical infrastructure, food and fuel distribution, pharmacies, airports, shelters and public service facilities, as well as patients traveling to emergency medical care.
More: Updated snowfall totals by town for Middlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon, Union Township
Trucks already in New Jersey when the restrictions take effect should stop in designated areas and avoid parking on highway shoulders, state police said. Violators may face penalties under state law.
Emergency management officials urge residents to stay off the roads unless necessary and to monitor official updates as the situation changes.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: New Jersey imposes mandatory travel ban ahead of major winter storm
