In anticipation of an upcoming destructive storm, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency across the entire state. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds of up to 60 mph, and the potential for widespread power outages.

At a storm briefing held in Trenton, Governor Murphy emphasized the seriousness of the situation, urging residents not to underestimate the impact of the storm. He warned that the state could experience "tens of thousands" of power outages and that there would likely be substantial traffic detours due to flooding and fallen trees.

The National Weather Service has issued a statewide flood watch, highlighting the possibility of flash flooding on highways and widespread flooding along rivers and streams. Additionally, alerts for high winds and coastal flooding have been issued.

While a state of emergency does not impose travel restrictions, it enables the state to mobilize its emergency response and become eligible for federal disaster aid. As of now, there are no commercial vehicle restrictions on major highways, and the status of NJ Transit's rail and bus schedules remains uncertain.

Governor Murphy expressed concern about the timing of the storm, as the "hours of intensity" are predicted to occur during the night, potentially exacerbating the impact. This could lead to power outages and potential water rescues.

Residents are strongly advised to stay home if possible during the storm. Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of caution for those who do need to be out, urging them to exercise extreme care.

The state of emergency will go into effect at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, allowing the state to proactively respond to the storm's anticipated effects. The declaration aims to ensure the safety and assistance of the residents of New Jersey in the face of this severe weather event.