Newton, NJ — A major winter storm swept through the Tri-State area, coating roads and sidewalks with slushy snow across regions north and west of New York City. The storm created dangerous travel conditions, forced several school closures and delays in New York and New Jersey, and left cleanup crews working nonstop throughout Tuesday.
New Jersey Governor Declares State of Emergency
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy officially declared a state of emergency for multiple northwestern counties, citing “potentially significant winter storm” conditions and increased risks to residents. The declaration helped mobilize state resources and opened the door for expanded emergency response as the storm intensified.
Across the region, local DPW crews formed long lines of salt trucks, snowplows, and emergency vehicles as workers scrambled to clear snow-packed major roads and keep traffic moving.
Newton and Sparta See Heavy Demand for Supplies
In Newton, New Jersey, signs of the storm’s impact were visible everywhere—snow-covered sidewalks, icy driveways, and residents bundled up as they worked to clear their properties.
Hardware stores saw a surge in customers preparing for the storm’s aftermath. One popular shop in Sparta reported they nearly sold out of shovels, salt, and ice melt as homeowners rushed to gear up for the first major snowfall of the season.
Public works crews teamed up with community members to restore safer pathways, creating a hive of activity throughout the morning.
Orange County Roads Turn Treacherous
Conditions were especially hazardous in Orange County, New York, where Route 17 became a slick, slippery hazard. Multiple cars reportedly spun out as snow mixed with rain, making the roadway difficult to navigate.
Snow removal efforts intensified as:
- Highway crews worked around the clock
- Private plow operators joined the efforts
- Heavy-duty machinery cleared large hospital parking lots
- Pickup trucks with mounted plows tackled residential and commercial areas
Despite constant cleanup, the storm’s intensity made road safety a persistent challenge.
Middletown Tackles 230 Lane Miles of Snow
The city of Middletown, New York faced one of the biggest cleanup operations in the region, responsible for clearing 230 lane miles of roadway. DPW Commissioner Jacob Tawil urged residents to stay off the roads to ensure crews could work quickly and safely.
“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,”
— Jacob Tawil
Officials stressed that reduced traffic dramatically improves plowing effectiveness and keeps both residents and workers safer.
Governors Warn Residents to Stay Alert
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul also issued warnings for parts of upstate New York, cautioning residents to brace for the state’s first major snowfall of the season.
“State agencies stand ready to assist New Yorkers throughout the storm,” Hochul said, adding that plow crews would remain out in force as long as necessary.
Forecasts predicted six or more inches of snow in some communities, with storm bands expected to continue shifting throughout the day.
Residents Grab Shovels and Snow Blowers
For many, the storm meant extra morning work—snow blowers humming, shovels scraping, and neighbors helping neighbors dig out early. While scenic, the storm served as a sharp reminder that winter has arrived, and more snowfall may be on the horizon.
Were you affected by the Tri-State winter storm? Do you think public safety measures were enough — or should more be done before the next snowfall? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
