Manchester Blizzard Warning: Move Vehicles, Safety Reminders

MANCHESTER, NJ — With a blizzard warning in effect for Ocean County and forecasters predicting up to 18 inches of snow and strong winds, Manchester Township officials have issued several reminders to residents ahead of the storm.

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.

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

Manchester police urged residents to remove their vehicles from the roads to make plowing easier.

• Stay off roads if possible, which will keep you safe from dangerous conditions while making it easier for first responders to travel to calls for assistance.
• Clear snow from hydrants.
• Be sure to have batteries, water and non-perishable food on hand.
• Keep rooftop vents clear to prevent carbon monoxide backup.
• Contact friends and relatives to ensure they are prepared should they need assistance.
• Keep medications and important phone numbers handy should you have to leave your residence.
• Bring pets in or make preparations to ensure their safety.

Manchester officials also urged residents to sign up for the town's emergency alerts via Nixle. You can sign up by texting 08759 to 888777. More information on the Nixle alerts can be found on the township's website.

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 Manchester Township Police Department at 732-657-6111.

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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