The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management under the Division of the New Jersey State Police have issued a mandatory travel restriction beginning 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026, and ending 7:00 a.m. on Monday, February 23, 2026, in response to a major winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, blizzard conditions, and strong winds across the state.
Governor Sherrill declared a State of Emergency on Saturday, February 21, 2026, effective Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 12:00 p.m., to protect public safety and ensure timely snow removal and emergency response.
Travel Restriction Details:
- All non-exempt vehicles are prohibited from operating on state, county, municipal, and interstate roadways during this period.
- The New Jersey Turnpike is exempt from this restriction.
- Violators may face penalties under state law.
Exemptions:
The travel restriction does not apply to:
- Emergency and public safety vehicles and personnel
- Public works and snow removal crews
- Public transportation vehicles and personnel
- Government officials conducting official business
- Utility company vehicles and personnel
- Healthcare workers and urgent medical travel
- Personnel supporting emergency shelter operations and human services facilities
- Delivery of critical medical supplies and services to healthcare facilities
- News media
- Private snow removal contractors
- Patients seeking urgent critical care and their escorts
- Travel necessary to maintain critical infrastructure and essential services, including energy, fuel, food, pharmacies, and hardware stores
- Personnel supporting airline and airport operations
This measure is intended to safeguard lives and allow emergency and utility crews to clear roads and restore essential services as quickly as possible.
For official updates and preparedness information, visit
www.ready.nj.gov.
