Snow and ice creating slow commute in north and central New Jersey

New Jersey Department of Transportation spokesman Joe Dee says snow, sleet, and freezing rain is causing treacherous travel conditions in northern and central parts of the state, and conditions could change as you’re driving.

“We’re right at a freezing non-freeze line in say the 195 corridor, so that’s the fear that you can encounter sleet and icy conditions on roadways where you were driving on roads that were just wet.”

Dee says road crews are making progress. “We’ve got about 1,700 trucks out there spreading salt and doing some plowing up in northern parts of the state, but predominately spreading salt in northern and central New Jersey and in the south as well where needed.”

This morning’s freezing rain is one is a series of winter storms hitting New Jersey this week. But because of icing we’re hearing reports of lots of downed trees and as a consequence down power lines.

There are scattered power outages. PSE&G says there are more than 12,000 customers without service. Most are in Mercer County.

Many schools have closed or plan open on a delayed schedule. Princeton University has cancelled classes.

The National Weather Service expects temperatures to rise and the precipitation to changeover to rain by noon.

Gov. Chris Christie has declared a State of Emergency and state offices are closed for non-essential employees.

Air travelers face cancellations and delays at Newark Liberty International Airport.

NJ Transit is operating on a storm schedule. Buses and trains are cross-honoring tickets.

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WHYY’s Phil Gregory and the Associated Press contributed to this report