Full Notification

The National Weather Service continues to update information on two storm tracks heading towards NJ. While changes can occur and the impact in our area could be less, it is necessary for all to prepare now for what could be a very significant winter storm.

The storm forecasted for tonight into tomorrow morning is expected to cause travel issues considering the timing. Temperatures will be in low 30's to 20's however with increasing winds there is likelihood of black ice conditions at the least. The BVT Public Works department has been pre-treating the roads which will help tremendously but they still advise extreme caution. County and State Highway roads are managed by those agencies and not our Public Works.

Of larger concern is the storm forecasted for Monday night into Tuesday which is a Nor' Easter storm. There is a Winter Storm Watch in effect now for our area with counties not to far above us under a Blizzard Watch. This storm is forecasted at 100% chance of precipitation with a minimum of 12 inches of snow and some forecast models suggesting as high as 20-30 inches. There will be increased winds with gusts up to 30-40 mph causing white out conditions and poor visibility.

The wind along with falling temperatures may produce subzero wind chills. Avoid exposure to the weather elements if at all possible. If you must go outside be sure and cover all exposed skin.

Snow, icing, and wind may all cause blowing and or falling limbs, poles, wires, and structures/debris. Take precautions now to secure items that can blow. Use caution if outdoors.

Frozen pipes, vehicle failures, prolonged loss of power are all possible. Have additional water, food, blankets/outerwear, etc available in homes and car if you must travel. Have sufficient medications to last at least 3-4 days. Have a plan of where you can stay if there is a prolonged power outage and you do not have resources to remain in your home. Keep cell phones and radios charged. Shut down and rain weather exposed pipes. Apply heat tape or leave water trickling in outdoors pipes that cannot be shut down however trickling may not be enough in these conditions or can cause a slip hazard.

Caution should be taken to protect pets that live or go outdoors. Check on neighbors especially if elderly or medically frail. It can not be stressed enough that people with cardiac, hypertension, stroke, and other serious medical conditions should not be shoveling snow or exposed to the weather conditions as this could lead to a life ending event.

For emergencies please call 9-1-1. For non-emergencies please call 856-697-2100 during business hours. For the Emergency Management Coordinator please contact 609-464-2081.

Debra Bell
BVT Emergency Management Coordinator