'Intense Storm' Will Last 24 Hours, County OEM Says

As the nor'easter makes its way to the region, the Morris County Office of Emergency Management is keeping a close watch over the pending storm and warning residents to prepare.

According to Jeffrey Paul, director of the Morris County OEM, snow will be scattered and light until Friday evening.

"We are gearing up for additional snow, sleet and ice accumulations which will become steadier and heavier towards Friday evening as the colder air moves in resulting in the bulk of the anticipated snow accumulations," he said. "Forecasts suggest that this will be a long duration and intense storm which will likely last over a 24-hour time frame."

The National Weather Service predicted between 10 and 16 inches of snow in Morris, Sussex and Warren counties. Major travel delays are expected Friday night and the snow, which could be heavy at times, is expected to mix with or turn to icy sleet.

"Very hazardous travel is expected for the evening commute and well into the night with visibility down to 1/4 mile at times," the NWS said on their website. "Isolated power outages are possible."

Temperatures could drop into the 20s by Friday night. By Saturday morning, the snow is expected to be merely flurries with a "sunny cold Saturday afternoon" forecast.

The Morris County Department of Human Services and Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities and Veterans has been contacted and will be servicing county residents in need. Municipalities and residents are also encouraged to keep senior citizens and those who may need assistance in mind.

Among many preparation recommendations made by the county OEM, having a good shovel on hand, grocery shopping in advance, charging cell phones and filling up gas tanks are advised. Having a First Aid kit and an adequate supply of medications is also advised.

How will you be preparing for the storm? Let us know in the comments.