Barnegat Blizzard Warning: Move Vehicles, Be Prepared

BARNEGAT, NJ — Barnegat Township residents are urged to be prepared for the incoming storm that has prompted a blizzard warning from the National Weather Service.

Police Chief Keith A. Germain said township officials are monitoring the storm, which is predicted to bring 12 to 18 inches of snow to the coastal areas.

A blizzard warning is in effect for Ocean County from 7 p.m. Friday through 7 p.m. Saturday, with a potential for 12 to 18 inches of snow and winds gusting as high as 50 mph, the weather service said.

In addition, coastal flooding is anticipated in areas that flood often during the hours before and after high tide Saturday morning.

Gov. Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency that takes effect at 5 p.m. Friday.

"It's been a little while since we've had one like this, but you know the routine," Germain said in a Facebook post about the storm. "Expect power outages tomorrow as the wind will really be cranking," with the highest gusts forecast from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

"We're expecting most roads in town to be impassable by daybreak tomorrow," because of the amount of snow, Germain said.

Barnegat authorities will be posting regular updates, he said.

If there is a power outage, call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877), or go to www.jcp-l.com.

Downed power lines should be immediately reported to JCP&L at 1-888-544-4877 and to the Barnegat Township police at 609-698-5000.

Do not go near a downed power line, even if you think it is no longer carrying electricity.

In case of an EMERGENCY dial 9-1-1.

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