New Jersey orders state of emergency ahead of storm Hermine

Governor of New Jersey Chris Christie has declared a state of emergency in three counties, preparing for the extreme weather brought by Tropical Storm Hermine, according to the Governor's statement released on Saturday.

The declaration applies to Ocean County, Atlantic County and Cape May County as a result of severe weather conditions expected later on Saturday and throughout the Labour Day weekend, Xinhua news agency quoted the Governor as saying in a statement published on the state's official website.

The storm might constitute great threats to the health, safety and resources of the residents in the three counties, according to the statement.

"This situation may become too large in scope to be handled by the normal county and municipal operating services ... and this situation may spread to other parts of the State," said Christie in his statement.

The Governor's declaration means people should stay off the roads so they do not interfere with law enforcement and emergency responders. The Governor can enact additional travel bans if road conditions are expected to become exceptionally dangerous.

--IANS

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