State of Emergency in South Jersey due to winter storm; snow moves in across Delaware Valley

A winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow to parts of the Delaware Valley. Here's what you need to know.

Winter storm warnings and advisories in effect for several counties throughout the Delaware Valley

Winter storm warnings and advisories are in effect for several counties throughout the Delaware Valley. (NWS)

This story originally appeared on 6abc.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has declared a State of Emergency for five counties in South Jersey as a winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow to parts of the Delaware Valley.

It went into effect at 9 p.m. Sunday for Atlantic, Burlington, Cape May, Cumberland, and Ocean counties.

The State of Emergency allows resources to be deployed throughout the impacted areas during the duration of the storm.

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“The anticipated winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, wind gusts, and coastal flooding in parts of Southern New Jersey,” Murphy said in a statement. “Residents should stay off the roads, remain vigilant, and follow all safety protocols.”

A list of school closures in New Jersey and across the Delaware Valley continues to grow.

Winter Storm Warnings are in effect from 4 a.m. Monday until 4 p.m. Monday for several counties in New Jersey, including Atlantic Co.; southeastern Burlington Co.; Cape May Co.; Cumberland Co.; and Ocean Co.

State offices in New Jersey will have a delayed opening on Monday at 10 a.m. for non-weather essential personnel.

Due to the potential for hazardous conditions, Cape May County announced they are limiting fare-free transportation to dialysis clients only on Jan. 3.

They will also deliver to the countywide meal clients. If weather permits, they will resume their regular schedule on Jan. 4.

Like state offices, Atlantic County offices will open at 10 a.m. Monday due to the potential for snow accumulations that may impact the morning commute.

Atlantic County officials say they are treating the roads as necessary but reported that COVID is affecting them.

Due to holiday travel and increase of COVID-19 cases, officials say county public works crews may not be at full strength.

Pennsylvania/Philadelphia

Winter Weather Advisories are in effect Monday morning for Philadelphia and Delaware County.

PennDOT crews reported early Monday morning. They loaded up salt trucks before being dispatched across the area.

While Philadelphia is expected to see some accumulation, the snow totals are not supposed to be especially high across Pennsylvania, but even a little snow can get messy.

PennDOT crews started treating the roads in the city and Montgomery County on Sunday ahead of the snow.

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If you do come across a working plow, PennDOT reminds drivers to remain at least six car lengths behind.

A PennDOT spokesperson says they are staffed and ready to go, but that one potential issue could be the timing of the storm and whether it intensifies during the rush.

Delaware

Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for parts of Delaware, including Kent County, inland Sussex County, and the Delaware beaches.

Officials announced offices will open Monday at 10 a.m. for non-essential employees.

Essential employees designated for severe weather are to report as scheduled.

The City of Newark announced it will open at 10:30 a.m. Monday. Emergency essential employees will report to work as required, whereas non-essential staff will report at 10:30 a.m.

“The City reminds residents and businesses that sidewalks must be cleared of any accumulated snow or ice within 24 hours,” Newark officials said.

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