STORM UPDATE: Latest Storm Update and Preparation Tips
Published on December 16, 2020
The Morris County Office of Emergency Management's Emergency Operations Center activated this morning at 5 a.m. as part of our continued preparedness activities as we await the arrival of the impending storm today. At the time of our interaction with our weather partners early this morning, we anticipate that the snow will greet us after lunch today and will continue until tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 17,around the same time period.
The data suggests that we will be dealing with mostly wet snow. The heaviest snow is expected later this evening and overnight into tomorrow. The snow totals remain in the 12-20" range. Winds are expected to be 10-15mph with gusts up to 35 mph.
Watch for updated alerts on Morris County OEM's Facebook page.
The previous WINTER STORM WARNING issued by the National Weather Service REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY until 10 a.m. THURSDAY.
In preparation for the storm, the County of Morris will be closing today at 2 p.m. for non-essential workers. We want our team to get home safely! It is important to understand that travel could be extremely difficult to impossible during portions of this storm. The heavy snow could result in power outages. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle along with warm clothing in case of an emergency.
It is important to mention that the Morris County Communications 9-1-1 Center should ONLY be contacted in the event of a true emergency. This is NOT the number to call for plowing, storm updates, and non-emergent issues. The Morris County Communications 9-1-1 Center should only be contacted for true emergencies when you engage 9-1-1 for non-emergent matters it takes a professional operator away from another emergency call.
Power-Related Issues
It is very possible, that we will experience some power-related issues across the County. We have been in touch with our partners at Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) and we maintain direct contact with them through our Emergency Operations Center. JCP&L has brought in additional staff and they have already implemented their storm response plans.
During severe weather, JCP&L customers who are without power are encouraged to call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) to report their outage or click the "Report Outage" link on www.firstenergycorp.com. DO NOT CALL 9-1-1!
The public is also encouraged to follow three simple steps to avoid dangerous accidental contact with electrical equipment if storms bring down wires:
- STOP what you're doing and stay away from electrical equipment.
- LOOK for hazards and call 911 to immediately report downed wires.
- LIVE and prevent serious injury by taking safety precautions, including never going near a downed power line, even if you think it is no longer carrying electricity. Extra caution should be exercised in areas where downed wires may be tangled in downed tree branches or other debris.
For updated information on the company's current outages, FirstEnergy's storm restoration process and tips for staying safe, visit the 24/7 Power Center at www.firstenergycorp.com/outages.
Generators:
- Emergency power generators offer an option for customers needing or wanting uninterrupted service.
- However, to ensure the safety of the home's occupants as well as that of utility company employees who may be working on power lines in the area, the proper generator should be selected and installed by a qualified electrician.
- When operating a generator, the power coming into the home should always be disconnected. Otherwise, power from the generator could be sent back onto the utility lines, creating a hazardous situation for utility workers.
- FirstEnergy customers also can subscribe to email and text message alert notifications for updates on scheduled or extended power outages. Customers can also use two-way text messaging to report outages, request updates on restoration efforts, and make other inquiries about their electric accounts. More information about these communications tools is available online at www.firstenergycorp.com/connect.
Please make sure you look after your elderly relatives, neighbors and those with special needs as well as your animals since they are also family.
Have an emergency plan in place!
Stay safe!
Morris County OEM Team