Christie Not Planning To Return To NJ Ahead Of Storm
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — Gov. Chris Christie says New Jersey is preparing for the worst as a winter storm bears down on the state.
Christie spoke earlier Thursday from New Hampshire where he is seeking the Republican nomination for president.
Much of New Jersey is now under a blizzard watch as forecasters continue tracking the storm.
Forecasters canceled an earlier winter storm watch after assessing the potential for winds and visibility. The blizzard watch is in effect from Friday night through Sunday morning.
Forecasters are predicting accumulations of 6 to 18 inches of snow are possible.
A spokesman for New Jersey's Transportation Department says crews have been treating roads with a salt mixture.
Christie says he isn't planning to return to New Jersey but will re-evaluate if circumstances call for it.
UPDATED CHRISTIE STATEMENT RELEASED THURSDAY AT 11 PM:
"Governor Christie continues to actively monitor the winter storm and held a telephone briefing of his cabinet this evening to direct the state's contingency and response planning. New Jersey's state agencies are making all necessary preparations while models of the storm's path and the potential impact on New Jersey become clearer as we approach the weekend. The Governor will receive an updated briefing tomorrow on final preparations and to determine any additional steps that need to be taken to ensure New Jersey is fully prepared and ready to clear roadways, address power outages and utility customer needs, and respond to any needs as they emerge."
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