Newton, NJ — A powerful winter storm swept through the Tri-State area, coating roads and sidewalks with thick, slushy snow, particularly north and west of the city. The wintry mix created hazardous travel conditions and kept local crews busy throughout the day.
Several schools in New York and New Jersey either closed or delayed openings as the combination of snow and rain made the morning commute especially slick.
State of Emergency Declared in Parts of New Jersey
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency for multiple northwestern counties, citing “hazardous weather conditions” anticipated from the potentially significant storm.
Emergency declarations allowed state agencies to mobilize resources more quickly as snowfall intensified across the region.
DPW Leads Massive Cleanup Effort
Lines of traffic formed behind Department of Public Works (DPW) plows as teams worked tirelessly to maintain major roadways. Crews focused on ensuring safe travel for drivers navigating increasingly slippery routes.
In Newton, New Jersey, the impact of the storm was immediately visible. Public workers and residents teamed up to clear pathways, driveways, and sidewalks, transforming the aftermath into a community-wide effort.
Hardware Stores See Surge as Residents Prepare
Local hardware shops experienced a rush of customers. One store in Sparta nearly ran out of crucial winter supplies as residents stocked up on shovels, salt, and snow blower parts in anticipation of continued snowfall.
Hazardous Roads Across Orange County, New York
In Orange County, New York, dangerous conditions caused several vehicles to spin out on Route 17, which quickly turned into a treacherous, ice-slick roadway.
Both private contractors and highway crews took aggressive measures to clear snow. Heavy-duty equipment worked in hospital parking lots, while pickup trucks outfitted with plows tackled neighborhood streets and commercial areas.
Middletown Faces 230 Lane Miles of Snow Removal
The city of Middletown had a formidable task ahead, responsible for clearing 230 lane miles.
DPW Commissioner Jacob Tawil stressed the importance of public cooperation, urging residents to remain off the roads during the storm’s initial impact.
“We always urge people to stay home, especially during the first snow, to allow us to clean the roads and make them safe. This way everyone will be better off,” Tawil said.
For many residents, the storm meant hours spent operating snow blowers or relying on classic shovels to dig out sidewalks and driveways.
New York Governor Hochul Warns of More Snowfall
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul urged upstate residents to prepare for what could become the first major snowfall of the season.
She emphasized that state agencies were fully prepared:
“State agencies stand ready to assist New Yorkers throughout the storm… but we encourage everyone to be weather aware and closely monitor the forecast.”
Forecasts predicted six inches or more in several areas, prompting concerns about additional travel disruptions.
Residents Brace for More Winter Weather
Despite the challenges, Tri-State communities demonstrated resilience as they cleared roads, stocked supplies, and prepared for more winter weather. With conditions still evolving, officials continue to urge caution, patience, and preparedness as crews work around the clock.
What Do You Think?
Have winter storms affected your area yet? Share your experiences and concerns in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
