N.J state of emergency: PATERSON, N.J. – A state of emergency has been declared in New Jersey as the state braces for a storm expected to bring heavy rain and increased flood risks, particularly along the Passaic River. Residents, still recovering from last month’s devastating floods, are on high alert, with authorities taking precautionary measures to mitigate potential damage.
Governor Phil Murphy issued the state of emergency for all 21 counties across the Garden State, emphasizing the need for preparedness and caution. The Passaic River, a focal point of concern, has already begun to rise as the storm approaches.
Mayors of Wayne, Pompton Lakes, and Lincoln Park sought permission to open floodgates on the Pompton Lakes Dam ahead of the storm to prevent downstream flooding. However, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection denied the request, citing scientific considerations that opening the dam would not effectively prevent flooding in this specific scenario.
Governor Murphy defended the decision, stating, “Based on the science associated with how these storms play and how the dams then behave, they feel the science is on the side of not doing that.”
Local school districts are taking preemptive measures, with Ridgewood Public Schools and Paramus Public Schools operating on a two-hour delay on Wednesday due to inclement weather. Paterson Public Schools will have an early dismissal on Wednesday, with all after-school activities canceled.
As rain continues to fall, businesses in the area are closing their doors with signs reading, “Closed due to impending weather.” PSE&G crews are on standby, ready to respond to power outages, while emergency management teams, including the state’s marine unit, are prepared for potential evacuations.
The denial of the request to open floodgates has left some residents frustrated, particularly those who are still grappling with the aftermath of last month’s floods. One auto repair shop in Paterson, heavily impacted by the previous storm, fears losing what little inventory remains.
Despite the challenges, officials are urging residents to stay off the roads, stay home if possible, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary. Wayne Mayor Christopher Vergano emphasized the importance of early evacuation, stating, “We have our emergency management team. We’ve opened our mobile command center. We have people to evacuate you in 5-ton trucks.”
The situation remains dynamic, with melted snow from the previous weekend adding to existing water levels. The state and local authorities are doing their best to coordinate efforts, provide resources, and ensure the safety of residents as New Jersey faces another significant weather event.
N.J state of emergency:
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