Up to 12 inches of heavy snow predicted to fall in northeastern New Jersey throughout the day, into the next morning
Meteorologists are expecting the snow to continue falling through early Thursday morning in parts of New Jersey, according to a winter storm warning advisory by the National Weather Service.
The advisory warns of heavy snow, with accumulations of up to 11 inches in parts of Bergen, Passaic and Warren counties.
Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Monmouth, Ocean, Salem, Somerset and Union counties can expect about 8 to 12 inches of snow. Cape May, Atlantic and Sussex counties may get between 3 and 6 inches of snow.
Winds of 10 to 20 mph, with gusts of up 35 mph, are expected this evening and can intensify overnight.
Forecasters say the heavy snowfall will turn into sleet and freezing rain by mid- to late afternoon, then change back to heavy snow into the night.
Authorities are warning motorists of hazardous conditions on the roads today.
The New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway both had lanes in each direction that were virtually impassable by late morning as snow and slush accumulated.
Once the snow ends Thursday morning, the sun will peek out and highs could reach 37, though 14-mph winds will make it feel colder.
New Jersey Transit is cross-honoring tickets across bus, rail and light rail lines. Port Authority spokesman Ron Marsico said 172 flights in or out of Newark Liberty International Airport had been canceled due to the weather by 11:45 a.m., with the number likely to rise.
In Morristown, residents seeking shelter from the storm can park for free at the Ann Street, Dalton Street or DeHart Street parking garages, beginning 1 p.m. today. King Street residents may park at the Vail parking deck for the duration of the snow storm, according to a press release from Mayor Tim Dougherty's office.
State workers are leaving their offices early today to beat the worst of the storm.
Gov. Chris Christie has ordered an early dismissal of all but essential state workers, the state Office of Emergency Management announced this afternoon.
The staggered state office closing started today at 2 p.m., and will continue throughout the afternoon.
Vehicles must be removed from the garages once the storm has cleared or by Friday at 8 a.m., the release stated.
Motor Vehicle Commission facilities are also advising early closures today due to inclement weather conditions. All facilities will close at 3 p.m. Customers are advised to visit www.njmvc.gov for closing and delay information.
Freehold Raceway has canceled its live harness racing card because of the snowstorm.
The racetrack plans to resume live racing on Thursday. The track conducted simulcast wagering today.
Other sports events also were affected by the storm. The College of Jersey-Rowan men's and women's basketball games have been postponed from Wednesday to Thursday.
The College of New Jersey's wrestling match at Delaware Valley College was rescheduled for Feb. 7.
Staff writer Matt Friedman and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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