Following Governor Chris Christie's declaration of a state of emergency for the State of New Jersey, Mayor Ras J. Baraka has declared a state of emergency for the City of Newark.
"I have visited every ward throughout our City and Newarkers are battling frigid weather, strong winds, and icy conditions," said Mayor Baraka. "We are concerned about potential power outages due to these factors and we want our citizens to be prepared."
City officials also cautioned residents against the use of generators inside a home or apartment and using ovens or stoves to provide heat.
"We have already witnessed the hazardous effects of carbon monoxide poisoning when four members of a family had to be hospitalized," he added. "This is a time to be mindful of the safety of our loved ones as well as our neighbors."
The declaration of a state of emergency authorizes the City to coordinate response and recovery efforts with county and State agencies. It allows authorities to direct traffic and close roads for protection; to remove parked or abandoned vehicles from roadways, to evacuate people for emergency reasons; and to shelter people in need of help. The declaration also allows the City to qualify for reimbursement for certain funds expended.
The City has more than 75 trucks out on the streets and has set up response centers in each ward for residents affected by electrical, heating, or housing-related emergencies.
The City of Newark closed City Hall on Thursday.