A blizzard warning is in effect for Monmouth, Ocean and Burlington counties in New Jersey from 10 a.m. Sunday to 6 p.m. Monday as a powerful nor’easter threatens heavy snowfall, strong winds and dangerous travel conditions across parts of the state and the broader Northeast.

The National Weather Service office in Mount Holly issued the warning early Saturday morning, Feb. 21, 2026, after upgrading earlier alerts. Forecasters expect blizzard conditions with total snow accumulations of 12 to 20 inches in the warned areas. Winds will gust as high as 55 mph, reducing visibility to near zero at times and creating whiteout conditions.

“Blizzard conditions expected,” the NWS stated. “Snowfall rates could exceed 2 inches per hour at times. Blowing and drifting of snow, and whiteout conditions possible. Travel could be very difficult to impossible.”

The storm system, a classic coastal nor’easter, is forecast to intensify offshore Sunday afternoon into Monday. Heaviest precipitation is expected Sunday night through early Monday, with snowfall rates potentially reaching 2-3 inches per hour in bands. Thundersnow is possible in southeastern New Jersey due to strong atmospheric lift.

Impacts extend beyond the blizzard warning zone. Winter storm watches cover much of the state, including all 21 counties earlier in the weekend, with snowfall totals varying by location. Southern and central New Jersey, particularly along the Jersey Shore, face the highest accumulations, with some models projecting 10-20 inches or more in spots. Northern areas may see 6-12 inches, while inland regions could receive lighter amounts.

Wind gusts of 35-45 mph are expected farther inland, with coastal areas seeing the strongest winds. Gale warnings are in place along the Jersey Shore, raising risks of coastal flooding and beach erosion.

The National Weather Service highlighted hazards including:

• Travel dangers — Blowing snow and reduced visibility could make roads impassable, especially during the Monday morning and evening commutes.
• Power outages — Gusty winds may down tree branches and power lines.
• Whiteout conditions — Rapidly falling and drifting snow will severely limit visibility.

Residents in the warned counties are urged to prepare for prolonged hazardous weather. Officials recommend stocking food, water, medications and emergency supplies, charging devices and avoiding unnecessary travel. If driving is essential, carry blankets, food, water, a flashlight and a phone charger.

State and local agencies are activating emergency plans. The New Jersey Department of Transportation will deploy plows and salt trucks, with priority on major highways. Schools and businesses may close or delay openings Monday, and residents should monitor local announcements.

This storm follows a pattern of active winter weather in early 2026. Forecasters note the system’s track off the coast will determine exact snowfall distribution — a slight shift could push heavier bands farther north or south. Models show variability, with some projecting over 20 inches in isolated areas of South Jersey and the Shore.

Broader Northeast impacts include similar warnings for parts of New York, Long Island, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts, with 12-24 inches possible in some regions. The Philadelphia area, including southeastern Pennsylvania and Delaware, faces heavy snow and wind threats.

The NWS advises checking updates frequently, as conditions can change rapidly. Real-time information is available through weather.gov, state emergency management sites and local broadcasters.

As the storm approaches, New Jersey braces for what could be one of the season’s most significant events, with potential for widespread disruptions into Monday.