State of emergency update: All state offices closed as snow falls across NJ

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- Gov. Chris Christie has ordered all state offices closed Thursday, in an update of the state of emergency declared last night.

"Due to the severe winter storm, the State of New Jersey has authorized the closing of state offices on Thursday, March 5th for all non-essential employees," the latest state advisory says. "Essential employees should report to work on their regular schedule.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for central and southern areas, which should see 4 to 8 inches of snow. Winter weather advisories were issued for the northernmost counties, where 2 to 5 inches of snow is possible.

The snow could be heavy at times, so drivers are being urged to delay or postpone travel. And forecasters say bitter cold temperatures will reach the region Thursday night.

New Jersey has been socked in recent weeks by several major snow and ice storms.

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