The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, operating under the New Jersey State Police, has extended the state’s mandatory travel restriction as a severe winter storm continues to impact New Jersey.
Originally set to expire earlier, the restriction — which began at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026 — will now remain in effect until 12:00 noon on Monday, February 23, 2026. Officials cited ongoing hazardous conditions, including heavy snowfall, blizzard-like visibility, and strong winds, which continue to create dangerous travel situations statewide.
Residents are being urged to avoid all non-essential travel until the order is lifted. Road crews remain deployed across the state to clear snow-covered highways and local roads and to support restoration of essential services.
Travel Restriction Details
Under the extended order:
- All non-exempt vehicles are prohibited from operating on state, county, municipal, and interstate roadways.
- The New Jersey Turnpike is exempt from the restriction.
- Violations may result in penalties under state law.
Exemptions
The restriction does not apply to:
- Emergency and public safety vehicles and personnel
- Public works and snow removal crews
- Public transportation vehicles and personnel
- Government officials conducting official business
- Utility company vehicles and personnel
- Healthcare workers and urgent medical travel
- Personnel supporting emergency shelters and human services facilities
- Delivery of critical medical supplies and services to healthcare facilities
- News media
- Private snow removal contractors
- Patients seeking urgent critical care and their escorts
- Personnel maintaining critical infrastructure and essential services, including energy, fuel, food, pharmacies, and hardware stores
- Airline and airport operations personnel
Officials said the measure is designed to protect public safety and ensure that emergency responders, utility crews, and road maintenance teams can operate without obstruction as they work to clear roadways and restore services.
Authorities advised residents to monitor official state communications for updates on when the restriction will be lifted.