Winter Storm Advisory & Emergency Declaration, Township of Irvington

Winter Storm Advisory & Emergency Declaration

Irvington, NJ — January 25, 2026 — The Township of Irvington is preparing for a significant winter storm expected to impact the community from Sunday, January 25, through Monday, January 26, 2026. Based on forecasts from the National Weather Service, the storm is expected to bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain, with projected accumulations ranging from 8 to 14 inches, followed by extreme cold.

In response to the anticipated severity of the storm, Mayor Tony Vauss has declared a Township State of Emergency effective January 25, 2026, to ensure public safety and allow emergency and public works crews to respond efficiently.

Weather models continue to evolve, but potential impacts include:

  • Heavy snow and ice accumulation leading to fallen trees and downed power lines
  • Dangerous travel conditions with snow-covered and icy roadways
  • Reduced visibility and widespread transportation disruptions
  • Prolonged hazardous conditions due to extreme cold following the storm

Residents are urged to prepare now and closely monitor weather updates as conditions may change.

Public Safety Advisory

Irvington residents are strongly advised to take the following precautions:

  • Avoid all non-essential travel during the storm
  • If travel is unavoidable, allow extra time and proceed with extreme caution
  • Secure loose outdoor items that could be affected by wind or snow
  • Stay indoors whenever possible and keep mobile devices fully charged
  • Do not touch or approach downed power or utility lines — call 911 immediately
  • Follow official emergency alerts and local weather updates

Mayor Vauss strongly urges residents to stay off the roads to allow public works crews to clear snow safely and to reduce the risk of accidents during whiteout conditions.

Safety & Home Preparedness Tips

  • Prevent Frozen Pipes: Allow a slow drip from faucets and open cabinet doors to circulate warm air around plumbing
  • Heating Safety: Never use gas ovens, grills, or charcoal indoors. Space heaters should be placed on flat surfaces and kept at least three feet away from flammable items
  • Power Outages: Fully charge phones and backup batteries. To report outages or downed wires, contact your local utility (PSE&G: 1-800-436-7734)
  • Pet Safety: Bring all pets indoors during the storm

Shoveling & Outdoor Safety

  • Clear a three-foot perimeter around fire hydrants near your property to assist emergency responders
  • Sidewalks must be cleared within 12–24 hours after the storm ends, in accordance with local ordinances
  • Avoid overexertion while shoveling; cold weather increases heart attack risk. Take breaks and dress in warm, lightweight layers

Emergency Warming Stations & Shelter

Residents in need of temporary shelter or warming assistance should contact:

  1. Irvington Neighborhood Improvement Corporation (INIC)
    346 16th Avenue | (973) 416-0916
  2. Lebby C. Jones Senior Center
    1077 Springfield Avenue | (973) 866-9236

No Heat Hotline

Residents experiencing a loss of heat or power should first notify their utility provider, then contact the Township’s No Heat Hotline at (973) 399-6666 to report the issue.

Local Emergency Management Contacts

  • John F. Brown, OEM Coordinator (Primary): 973-419-2930

For any immediate emergency, dial 911.

Irvington’s Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor conditions closely and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Mayor Tony Vauss also reminds residents that staying indoors is the safest option—and suggests making the most of it by enjoying family time, or watching the NFL Playoffs, including today’s NFC and AFC Championship games.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, prepared, and safe as this winter storm approaches.

 

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