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New Jersey governor declares state of emergency for Isaias

New Jersey is under a tornado watch and a state of emergency as Tropical Storm Isaias makes its way up the coast after making landfall as a hurricane in North Carolina.

Motorists drive down the New Jersey Turnpike in Carneys Point, N.J.
Motorists drive down the New Jersey Turnpike in Carneys Point, N.J.Read moreMatt Slocum / AP
    by Associated Press, The Associated Press
    Updated 
    Published 

TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey was under a state of emergency Tuesday as Tropical Storm Isaias made its way up the coast after making landfall as a hurricane in North Carolina.

Gov. Phil Murphy issued the order, telling motorists not be on roads unless “absolutely necessary.”

Murphy said all state offices were closed and nonessential state government workers were told to stay home.

A tropical storm warning was in effect for most of New Jersey as Isaias threatened the state with high winds and heavy rainfall.

Weather forecasters are predicting 45 to 55 mph winds with gusts to 70 mph. Those winds threaten to down trees and power lines.

The state also advised businesses to take down all temporary structures, including outdoor dining tents and umbrellas that were erected during the coronavirus pandemic.

The rainfall could cause flooding.

The National Weather Service also issued a tornado watch for the entire state.

Hoboken officials told residents in flood-prone areas to park on higher ground.