Governor Murphy Announces State Offices and Vaccine Mega-Sites Will Remain Closed on Tuesday, February 2^nd Due to Winter Storm Orlena

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today announced that state offices and all six vaccine mega-sites will remain closed on Tuesday, February 2^nd due to Winter Storm Orlena. New Jersey will remain under a state of emergency in response to the winter storm. Snow accumulation for the storm began as of Sunday afternoon, with the heaviest snow expected to continue during the day on Monday, and hazardous conditions to continue through Tuesday afternoon. Executive Order No. 218 declared a state of emergency across all 21 counties in New Jersey, allowing resources to be deployed throughout the state during the duration of the storm.

State offices will be closed on Tuesday, February 2^nd, 2021. This does not impact weather-essential employees. Private companies and businesses should dismiss their employees at their own discretion. All six vaccine mega-sites will be closed on Tuesday, February 2^nd due to the storm.

“Heavy snow, coastal flooding, and high winds are expected to continue across the state today into tomorrow,” said Governor Murphy. “I urge all of our residents to follow weather-related guidance and stay off the roads in order to allow access for essential workers and emergency personnel.”

Parts of New Jersey have already experienced heavy snow, coastal flooding, and blizzard-like conditions. The New Jersey State Police has activated the State Emergency Operations Center in order to monitor the storm. The New Jersey Department of Transportation, New Jersey Turnpike Authority, and South Jersey Transportation Authority will also deploy over 3,900 plows and spreaders to keep roads and communities safe. 

The Governor encourages New Jerseyans to visit ready.nj.gov for important weather updates and safety information. New Jersey residents should also pay attention to local forecasts, warnings, and watches.

For those living in Central and Southern New Jersey, visit the U.S. National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly at http://www.weather.gov/phi/

For those living in Northern New Jersey and the New York Metro area, visit the U.S. National Weather Service New York, N.Y. at http://www.weather.gov/okx/

The state’s six vaccine mega-sites will remain closed on Tuesday, February 2^nd. Individual healthcare providers will be reaching out via phone, email and/or text to reschedule any appointments for tomorrow.

• Atlantic (AtlantiCare) – Rescheduled to Friday
• Bergen (Hackensack Meridian Health) – Rescheduled during extended hours throughout the week
• Burlington (Virtua) – Rescheduled during extended hours throughout the week
• Gloucester (County Health) – Rescheduled to Wednesday
• Middlesex (RWJBarnabas) – Rescheduled to Friday
• Morris (Atlantic Health) – Rescheduled to Thursday

The Vaccination Call Center will remain open to pre-register individuals, answer questions, and provide contact information for sites. It is not currently scheduling appointments until the storm’s impact is assessed. To reach the Vaccination Call Center dial 855-568-0545.

How You and Your Family Can Stay Safe During the Storm 

• Stay off roads if at all possible. If you must be on the roads, be sure to have an emergency kit for your car that includes items for winter such as blankets, socks, ice scraper/brush, windshield cleaner, and jumper cables.  
• Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.  
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. ONLY use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven. 
• ALWAYS assume downed wires are live! NEVER touch them or drive over them! 
• NEVER drive through flooded areas. Water may be deeper than you think!
• Avoid candles because of the extreme risk of fire. Use only battery powered lights, such as flashlights, for emergency lighting. 
• Reduce the risk of a heart attack by avoiding overexertion when shoveling snow and walking in the snow.  
• Pets are family too. If you’re cold, they’re cold. Bring them inside.  
• If it is safe to do so, check on your neighbors. Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold. Just a moment of your time can mean a lot to someone who may need help. NJ 2-1-1 has resources for those in need.  

Visit ready.nj.gov to learn more about staying safe during the winter storm. 

A copy of Executive Order No. 218 can be found here.