Atlantic County officials are encouraging residents to make preparations now in advance of a nor’easter winter storm with the potential for 10-18 inches of snow and gusty winds beginning Sunday, Feb. 22 through Monday, Feb. 23.
The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for our area effective 1 p.m. tomorrow through 6 p.m. Monday evening with snowfall rates that could exceed 2 inches per hour. Sustained wind gusts of 35 miles per hour may result in blowing snow, poor visibility and downed tree branches. Motorists are urged to avoid travel during this time.
Storm preparations should include charging electronic devices; fueling/charging vehicles; having necessary medications and supplies for infants and pets; checking on the elderly and infirm; checking and replenishing storm supplies including non-perishable food items and water, flashlights and extra batteries, and a battery-operated radio; leaving indoor faucet dripping to avoid frozen pipes; reviewing instructions to safely operate a portable generator outdoors.
Atlantic County Public Works crews are monitoring the forecast and preparing equipment. Plows will be deployed for 2 or more inches of snow accumulation. Crews will clear the major, most heavily traveled, county roadways first.
Residents are urged to heed the warnings and guidance of public officials. Those in need of assistance during the storm should contact their local office of emergency management. Life threatening emergencies should be reported immediately to 911.
Motorists should exercise caution on snow-covered roadways and stay well behind salt trucks and snowplows. According to NJ state law, snow must be removed from vehicles before traveling. When shoveling driveways, place snow on the “down” side of the street, to the left of the driveway when facing it from the road.
County officials will continue to post storm updates to the county website as they are issued at: www.atlanticcountynj.gov.
