N.J. state of emergency set to begin at midnight Tuesday

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency Monday afternoon in advance of a storm that is set to impact New Jersey beginning Tuesday.

The state of emergency will go into effect at midnight Tuesday. The worst impacts will be in the northern portion of the state.

The National Weather Service is forecasting generally mixed precipitation at the Jersey Shore, with generally one to two inches south into Ocean County and less to the south before changing to rain during the afternoon. Areas along the coast will likely experience less snow.

Good Evening! An updated briefing package has been issued for the storm moving through the region tonight through Tuesday night. https://t.co/JiD09By93X #dewx #mdwx #njwx #pawx

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— NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) February 11, 2019

The state of emergency declaration authorizes the state to activate and coordinate the preparation, response and recovery efforts for the storm with all county and municipal emergency operations and governmental agencies.

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about a state of emergency.

Can I drive?

NJOEM: The governor’s declaration does not normally restrict citizen movements or activities. The state may limit access to affected areas due to concerns for public safety but will notify the public of these restrictions. If it is necessary to impose vehicular or personal movement restrictions, the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management will alert the public using all available means, including, but not limited to: the Emergency Alert System, urgent press releases, DOT highway signs, law enforcement teletypes, etc. Every effort will be made by NJOEM to facilitate safe passage for utility, health care and emergency services workers whose presence is necessary for public safety or in response to the emergency.

How long will it last?

NJOEM: The governor will rescind the state of emergency when it is no longer needed to provide necessary support to localities or until the threat of impending danger from the event has passed.

Does it bar commerce?

NJOEM: The Governor’s declaration does not address restrictions on the sale or provision of goods or services. However, your locality may enact restrictions under their local emergency declaration. We recommend that you contact your local government for any specific information.

Does my employer still have to pay me?

NJOEM: The governor’s declaration does not mandate administrative policies for individual businesses or address workplace situations in which employees are unable to travel. Businesses must address hours of operation and compensation on an individual basis. Once a federal disaster is declared, employees unable to work may be eligible for unemployment assistance.