New Jersey imposes mandatory travel ban ahead of major winter storm

New Jersey has imposed a mandatory statewide travel restriction as a major winter storm approaches.

The restriction imposed by the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management will be in effect from 21:00 on Sunday, February 22, until 7 a.m. on Monday, February 23. During this time, all non-exempt vehicles are prohibited from traveling on state, county, municipal and interstate highways. The New Jersey Turnpike is exempt.

Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency effective noon on Sunday, February 23, to protect public safety and allow for snow removal and emergency response.

The restriction allows limited exemptions for emergency and public safety vehicles, public transportation, snow removal and public works crews, commercial vehicles, healthcare workers, government officials on official business, news media and vehicles delivering critical medical supplies. Additional exemptions apply to workers who support critical infrastructure, food and fuel distribution, pharmacies, airports, shelters, and human service facilities, as well as patients traveling for emergency medical care.

More: Updated snow totals by town in Middlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon, Union

Trucks already in New Jersey when the restriction goes into effect must operate in designated areas and avoid stopping on highway shoulders, state police said. Violators may face penalties under state law.

Emergency management officials urged residents to stay off the roads unless travel is essential and to follow official updates as conditions evolve.

This article was first published on MyCentralJersey.com: NJ imposes mandatory travel ban ahead of major winter storm