A fast-moving winter storm forced New Jersey officials to halt most travel statewide as crews worked to keep roads and services running.
What happened
– The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, via the Division of the New Jersey State Police, put a mandatory travel restriction in place after a storm brought heavy snow, blizzard-like conditions and strong winds.
– Governor Sherrill declared a State of Emergency on Saturday, February 21, 2026, effective noon on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
– The travel restriction ran from 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026, through 7:00 a.m. on Monday, February 23, 2026, covering statewide roadways where conditions created safety risks.
Why the restriction mattered
Officials aim to reduce the number of vehicles on hazardous roads so plows, tow trucks, utility crews and first responders can work more efficiently and safely. With fewer cars in the way, crews clear lanes faster, emergency calls are easier to reach, and the
What the order required
– All non-exempt vehicles were prohibited from operating on state, county, municipal and interstate roadways during the restriction.
– The New Jersey Turnpike was specifically exempt from the ban.
– Law enforcement monitored compliance; motorists who ignored the order could face penalties.
Who could still travel
Exempt vehicles and operations were narrowly defined to preserve essential services. Typical categories included:
– Emergency responders and public safety vehicles
– Snow removal and road maintenance crews
– Utility crews performing urgent repairs
– Public transit and authorized medical transports, including ambulances
– Vehicles carrying critical supplies (food, fuel, medical goods) with proper authorization or identification
– Commercial carriers with preapproved permits
If you believed your vehicle qualified for an exemption, carry documentation proving your affiliation or mission. Law enforcement verified authorizations at checkpoints.
Healthcare, pharmacies and critical supplies
– Ambulances and other medical transports remained authorized to operate.
– Vehicles carrying medicines, oxygen, blood/tissues for transplant and other time-sensitive clinical materials were permitted.
– Pharmacy deliveries and logistics that support hospitals, clinics and shelters were included when backed by incident or agency-issued authorization.
– Suppliers and transport companies should travel with clear paperwork to avoid enforcement delays.
How long, and how decisions are made
The restriction was intended as a temporary measure tied to public-safety conditions. Officials monitor road and weather conditions and consult emergency and health authorities to decide when it’s safe to lift or modify the order. Renewals or changes follow formal assessments and are communicated through official channels.
What residents should do
– Avoid nonessential travel until the order is lifted.
– If travel is unavoidable and you are exempt, carry proof of authorization, use clearly marked vehicles when possible, and obey posted detours and law enforcement directions.
– Prepare basic supplies, keep mobile devices charged, and plan alternate routes.
– Follow instructions from state and local officials to help emergency crews work efficiently.
Staying informed
For the most reliable updates consult official state and local sources:
– New Jersey preparedness portal: www.ready.nj.gov
– New Jersey Office of Emergency Management on social media: Facebook @ReadyNewJersey, Instagram @ReadyNJ, X @ReadyNJ
– Sign up for local alerts and monitor county or municipal emergency pages for shelter locations and service notices. Following the guidance kept roads clearer, responders safer, and vital supplies moving to hospitals and shelters.