New Jersey residents woke up on Monday to find a thick layer of snow covering their homes and streets. The snowstorm that swept through the state overnight left several areas with significant snowfall. Sussex, Warren, and Morris counties saw the heaviest snowfall, with Kinnelon and Sparta recording up to 7 inches of snow.
For many, the surprise snowfall was more than expected. Ronnie Alagha, a resident of Boonton, had planned for just a few inches of snow, but to his surprise, it was much more. “It’s a lot more than we expected,” he said. “I thought it was going to be 1-3 inches. It ended up being 6 or more.”
As snow continued to accumulate, residents took to clearing it from their cars, driveways, and sidewalks. The biggest concern for many was the icy conditions expected as temperatures dropped overnight. “That’s a big concern,” said Alagha. “The next couple of days, it gets freezing, and then you get ice, and someone falls and breaks a leg or something.”
The National Weather Service had already warned of a significant temperature drop. After the snowstorm, temperatures were expected to plunge into the single digits, with wind chills making it feel much colder, even below zero. In preparation for the extreme cold, neighbors like Alex Conklin worked to salt their driveways, while others like Greg Dwyer focused on shoveling snow down to the pavement. Dwyer hoped the sun would help clear up any remaining snow, preventing the formation of ice.
While many were focused on clearing snow and salting the roads, safety was on the minds of everyone. Falls caused by icy conditions are always a concern during winter storms, and this was no exception. People are taking extra care to ensure they stay safe, whether by salting their walkways or shoveling snow as quickly as possible.
The storm and freezing temperatures are expected to continue over the next few days, leaving residents to brace for the extreme cold and any additional snow that might follow. Many are planning to stay inside and avoid going out if they can.
Safety Tips for NJ Residents:
- Clear Snow Immediately: It’s important to shovel snow as soon as possible to prevent ice buildup.
- Use Salt or Sand: Spread salt or sand on your driveway and sidewalks to prevent ice from forming.
- Dress Warmly: If you need to go out, layer your clothing and wear a good winter coat to protect against the cold.
- Drive Carefully: If you must drive, make sure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires and drive slowly to avoid slipping.
- Check on Neighbors: If you have elderly neighbors, check on them to make sure they are safe and have everything they need.
Residents are also being urged to stay informed and watch out for any weather warnings issued by local authorities. Keeping an eye on the weather is key to staying safe during these harsh winter months.
This storm is just a reminder of how unpredictable the winter weather can be, and how important it is for residents to stay prepared for sudden changes. With the forecast showing more cold days ahead, New Jerseyans will have to be extra careful and take the necessary steps to stay safe and warm.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
