New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has activated a state of emergency following a critical propane distribution disruption in Pennsylvania that threatens 186,000 homes.

The declaration addresses anticipated impacts on the delivery of propane for home and commercial heating purposes. “As temperatures continue to drop, ensuring that every person has access to a safe, warm environment is essential,” Murphy stated. “I am declaring a State of Emergency to ensure that the approximately 186,000 New Jerseyans who rely on propane for home heating purposes can receive it without interruption. This Executive Order expands delivery capabilities to keep homes heated and families secure,” he added.

Under federal waiver provisions enacted during emergencies, the maximum driving time for commercial motor carriers transporting propane has been extended from 11 hours to 14 hours, with 10 consecutive hours of off-duty time required between shifts. Executive Order No. 408 remains in effect until it is determined that an emergency no longer exists.

Murphy urged residents impacted by the disruption to visit ready.nj.gov for safety updates and contact NJ211 for resource referrals and warming centers. He also reminded generators users to follow safety guidelines.

“We are anticipating extreme cold temperatures and snow across the state Saturday night into Sunday morning,” Murphy said on Friday. “Be cautious of snow-covered roads and stay safe, New Jersey!”

The emergency takes effect at 9 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 12. Murphy’s order indicated the disruption originated in Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania, with the issue beginning on November 21, 2025. The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) identified Energy Transfer Partners as the terminal operator. In his five-page executive order signed Thursday, Murphy noted the disruption is expected to cause longer wait times for propane trucks and that current driver scheduling limitations could exacerbate delivery challenges.