Tree Closes Road In Maplewood As Town Issues Warning About Black Ice

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Amid a storm that caused flooding in North Jersey and is expected to bring high winds and freezing temperatures Friday, the Maplewood police said streets were closed because of a tree that fell on wires.

"Valley Street between Baker Street and Harvard Avenue is closed. A large tree is laying on electrical wires," they said in a message. Prospect Avenue is also congested, they said.

Later, they sent out a new message that West Parker Avenue was closed because of a tree, then said around 5 p.m. that it was back open.

Earlier, the town's Office of Emergency Management sent out a detailed message about the coming weather, black ice, and numbers to call for power outages and issues. It reads as follows:

Weather Message From Maplewood OEM

Strong winds, rainfall, and freezing temperatures are anticipated across the tristate area through Saturday morning. Heavy rainfall of 1" to 2" is anticipated, with winds of 25-35 mph and gusts as strong as 45-55 mph. There is a potential for flash freezing and Black Ice beginning Friday afternoon/evening rush hour. Cold temperatures are anticipated for Friday evening/night, with sub-freezing temperatures continuing through Monday. Snowfall is not anticipated at this time.

In preparation for the storm, Maplewood Department of Public Works Crews will be treating Township roads, paths, and municipal lots beginning Friday evening. The Maplewood Police Department will be allowing overnight parking from December 23 through January 2 to accommodate holiday guests. However, if there is a snow emergency, all vehicles will be required to be removed from the roadway. The Maplewood Police Department would like to remind all residents and visitors that, as temperatures continue to drop, vehicles should not be left unattended to warm. Any vehicles left unattended should be locked with keys removed. Valuables and packages should not be left in vehicles.

Maplewood will be operating community heating centers to assist residents as needed. Any resident in need of heating center access should contact the police non-emergency line at (973) 762-1234. Residents will be invited to go to the Municipal Court/Police Headquarters and will be housed in the court room until a formal heating center is opened and staffed. Once the heating center is open, residents will travel or be transported to the center.

Strong winds have the potential to down tress and powerlines; power outages are possible. Unsecured objects and scattered tree limbs may be moved by gusts of wind. Residents and business owners are advised to secure outdoor objects. Travel should be avoided whenever possible and caution should be used when on the roads. In the event of downed power lines or trees, residents should contact both their local energy provider and the Maplewood Police Department non-emergency line.

JCP&L: 1-888-LIGHTSS (544-4877)
PSE&G: 1-800-436-PSEG (7734)
Maplewood PD non-emergency line: (973) 762-1234

Downed wires should always be considered "live," and residents should remain at least 30 feet away. Residents who rely on power for medical equipment should notify their local energy provider as well as the South Essex Fire Department (SEFD) non-emergency line prior to the storm.

SEFD non-emergency line: (973) 762-6500

Thank you all for your cooperation as we work to keep our community safe. Click here for more information.