TRENTON, N.J. – Acting Governor Tahesha Way declared a State of Emergency for all 21 New Jersey counties ahead of a powerful nor’easter expected to hit Sunday and last into Monday. The declaration takes effect Saturday at 10 p.m., as officials brace for heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding.
“Starting on Sunday, a dangerous coastal storm will begin to move past our state with extreme weather conditions for several counties, especially those on the Shore,” said Acting Governor Way. “Out of an abundance of caution, I’m issuing a State of Emergency, authorizing our emergency services to activate as needed.”
Residents are urged to monitor weather updates, follow evacuation orders, and stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. The State of Emergency will remain active until officials determine that conditions have improved.
Storm Timing and Impact
Forecasters expect the system to form off the Southeast coast on Saturday before moving north, developing into a full nor’easter. The storm could bring:
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Up to 3 inches of heavy rain
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Wind gusts up to 60 mph
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Coastal flooding from Sunday into Tuesday
The storm’s path remains uncertain—it could track quickly up the East Coast, affecting Maryland, New Jersey, Philadelphia, New York City, Long Island, Connecticut, and Boston, or move more slowly, hitting the Carolinas, Maryland, and Delaware hardest.
Jersey Shore Prepares for the Worst
Emergency officials in Cape May County are urging residents to secure property and move vehicles to higher ground.
“The worst tides will hit during daylight hours, which helps us avoid operating in darkness,” said OEM Coordinator Michael Eck. “But with astronomical tides this weekend, flooding could still be a major issue.”
Local families and businesses are already taking precautions.
“My son and I are trying to lift everything up that’s possible,” said Anthony Guerriero of Ocean City. “It’s overwhelming because we’re preparing for a block party, and now this storm hits.”
Despite the looming weather, some remain optimistic.
“Rain or shine, we always draw a huge crowd,” said Bridget Jacobson, a local business owner.
At Johnson’s Corner Farm in Medford, families rushed to enjoy fall festivities before the storm.
“We’re optimistic,” said owner Gilbert Johnson. “As farmers, we deal with Mother Nature all the time. We’ll just roll with it and see what happens.”
Organizers confirmed that both the Medford Apple Festival and Mullica Hill Fall Festival are still set to proceed, rain or shine.
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