Historic Blizzard Warning Issued for All of New Jersey as 2+ Feet of Snow and 60 MPH Winds Threaten Statewide Whiteout Conditions
NEW JERSEY — In what is being described as a potentially historic winter storm, a Blizzard Warning has been issued for the entire state of New Jersey, marking the first time such a statewide warning has been declared.
Forecasters warn that the next 36 hours could bring more than 2 feet of snow, wind gusts up to 60 miles per hour, and widespread whiteout conditions across the Garden State.
Statewide Blizzard Conditions Expected
The warning zone covers:
- Newark
- Jersey City
- Trenton
- Atlantic City
- Camden
- Toms River
- Cape May
From the Delaware River to the Atlantic coastline, all 21 counties are included under blizzard criteria.
Blizzard conditions are defined by:
- Sustained winds or frequent gusts ≥ 35 mph
- Falling and/or blowing snow
- Visibility reduced to ¼ mile or less
- Conditions lasting 3 hours or more
Forecast wind gusts approaching 60 mph significantly exceed the minimum threshold.
2+ Feet of Snow Possible
Snowfall projections suggest:
- Widespread totals exceeding 12 inches
- Localized amounts topping 24 inches
- Heaviest snow bands potentially stalling across central and eastern New Jersey
Coastal areas including Atlantic City may experience intense blowing snow combined with strong onshore winds.
Whiteout Travel Conditions Likely
Travel across major highways such as:
- I-95
- Garden State Parkway
- New Jersey Turnpike
- Route 287
could become extremely hazardous or impossible at times.
Whiteout conditions are expected, especially during peak wind periods when blowing and drifting snow severely reduces visibility.
Record-Breaking Potential
Meteorologists are noting the potential for:
- Record snowfall totals
- Historic statewide warning coverage
- One of the strongest winter storms in recent New Jersey history
The storm is rapidly strengthening over the northwest Atlantic Ocean, intensifying offshore while feeding heavy snow inland.
Coastal and Wind Impacts
In addition to heavy snow, coastal communities may see:
- Near-hurricane-force gusts
- Power outages
- Tree damage
- Significant drifting
The combination of deepening low pressure offshore and a tight pressure gradient is fueling the extreme wind forecast.
Timeline: Next 36 Hours Critical
- Heavy snow intensifies overnight
- Peak blizzard conditions possible during the height of the storm
- Conditions gradually improve after the system pulls northeast
However, cleanup and recovery may take significantly longer depending on final snowfall totals.
Bottom Line
New Jersey is facing what could become a historic blizzard event, with the entire state under a Blizzard Warning and the potential for 2+ feet of snow and 60 mph wind gusts.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for rapidly deteriorating conditions.
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