Schools to close two hours early on Monday
By Charles W. Kim,Managing Editor
SOUTH BRUNSWICK — Schools will be closing two hours early Monday as the township prepares for what may be a huge snowstorm, officials said Sunday night.
Monday’s impending snowstorm will have a major impact on the South Brunswick community, police said in a press release Sunday night.
In addition to the schools closing early, all after school activities, including Monday night’s Board of Education meeting, have been cancelled, district officials said.
Earlier Sunday, the National Weather Service in Mount Holly issued a blizzard warning for the community as well as the rest of Middlesex County.
This means high winds and heavy snowfall is anticipated beginning Monday afternoon through Tuesday evening.
Forecasts are calling for as much as two feet of snow.
The South Brunswick Police Department anticipates major impacts to travel and possible power outages as well as many roads being closed or impassable.
According to the NWS, a clipper system was advancing through the Middle Mississippi Valley on Sunday and is expected to bring up to three inches of snow to central New Jersey by Monday morning’s commute.
A coastal low is then expected to develop with significantly more moisture setting up a storm that could dump anywhere between 18 to 36 additional inches of snow through Tuesday, according to the forecast.
In addition to the snow, forecasters are warning of windy conditions of around 35 m.p.h. leading to potential blizzard conditions.
According to the agency, blizzard conditions exist when winds of at least 35 m.p.h. cause blowing snow to reduce visibility under a quarter of a mile for at least three hours.
Police are asking residents to report any power outages to PSE&G at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).
According to police, residents should do the following;
All vehicles must be removed from Township roadways in order to allow plowing.
Clear snow away from fire hydrants.
Clear snow off of sidewalks.
Clear snow off your vehicles before driving.
“Remember, these storms can cause loss of electricity, heat, and telephone service and can trap you in your home for a few days. It’s important to have ample supplies on hand in your home,” the release said.
Emergency officials issued these guidelines to make sure residents are prepared and safe during the storm;
Make sure your vehicle has fuel.
Check your medications are filled and up to date.
Make sure you have adequate food.
Make sure you have batteries and a flashlight.
Make sure to check in on elderly family and friends.
Have extra food and bottled water on hand.
Stock high-energy foods, non-perishable and canned foods requiring no cooking or refrigeration is best. A five-day supply is recommended.
Charge all electronic devices.
Have a battery-powered NOAA weather radio and portable radio to receive emergency information. These may be your only links to the outside.
Own a manual can opener.
Keep a seven-day supply of all medication, medical and baby supplies.
Some other steps to prepare include;
Access to emergency contact information.
Gather extra blankets, boots, hats, and gloves for all family members.
Gather shovels, salt, and sand for walkways.
Police are also asking residents to alert and check on family members, neighbors and friends who are not on social media and may lack awareness of the potential for a significant snow event.
Police will provide updates on road closures, power outages and event cancellations during the storm.
Stay with Centraljersey.com and The South Brunswick Post web site for more information as this story develops.