Gov. Chris Christie has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of a blizzard forecasters say could blanket parts of the state in about two feet of snow by Wednesday.

"The impending weather conditions over the course of the afternoon will produce a variety of dangerous travel conditions throughout the state," Christie said during a noon news conference.

"I've authorized state officials to take all necessary action in advance of the storm, and my Administration will continue monitoring conditions throughout the remainder of the storm. I encourage all New Jerseyans to use every caution as they travel today and to remain off the roads whenever possible so that our first responders and public safety officials can safely respond to any emergency situations," the governor said.

Early this morning prior to making the emergency declaration, Christie urged "all New Jersey residents to monitor the National Weather Service forecasts. This is a serious and significant weather event which will create extremely hazardous conditions. Travel will be dangerous and it is not advised."

The National Weather Service expects up to 24 inches of snow to fall across New Jersey, with the heaviest snow predicted to fall in the northeastern portion of the state.

By declaring a state of emergency, the governor urges all nonessential personnel to stay off the roads so not to interfere with law enforcement and emergency responders.

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The designation authorizes the state Director of Emergency Management -- Superintendent of the State Police Col. Rick Fuentes -- to activate elements of the State Emergency Operations Plan and coordinate a response with county and municipal officials, and the National Guard.

Emergency management officials have the power to redirect traffic or close roads to protect public safety, according to state law.

An emergency declaration doesn't mean motorists will be ticketed for merely being on the roads, and "essential" personnel is not defined in the law.

"The Governor's declaration does not normally restrict citizen movements or activities. The State may limit access to affected areas due to concerns for public safety but will notify the public of these restrictions," according to the Office of Emergency Management's website. The most important goal is to keep roadways clear of unnecessary traffic so emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and fire trucks, are free to travel.

The governor's declaration does not have an impact on private business owners' decisions to open or close, or to pay their employees during a closure.

"Businesses must address hours of operation and compensation on an individual basis," according to the state website. "Once a federal disaster is declared, employees unable to work may be eligible for unemployment assistance."

The state Assembly announced Sunday that its voting session would be postponed from today to Thursday. The state Senate reported for scheduled committee meetings today.

The last state of emergency in New Jersey occurred just before Thanksgiving.

Christie said he is confident is his team to handle whatever the storm delivers.

"This is my sixth winter as governor. We've had Hurricane Irene and Sandy. For better or for worse, we know how to deal with these situations," he said. "Starting later this afternoon you should stay home."

NJ Advance Media staff writer Matt Arco contributed to this report.

Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.