GA1030STORM 7 KURDZUK

Gov. Chris Christie today declared a state of emergency as a winter storm swept across New Jersey. (Tony Kurdzuk | The Star-Ledger)

TRENTON — Gov. Chris Christie today declared a state of emergency as a winter storm swept across New Jersey just as many residents hit the roads for the Thanksgiving holiday.

“Today’s storm is expected to produce travel hazards and potentially cause power outages throughout the state,” Christie said. “I’ve authorized state officials to take all necessary action to prepare, and my administration will continue monitoring conditions throughout the remainder of the storm."

Christie added, "With higher than normal traffic volume due to the Thanksgiving holiday, I strongly encourage all New Jerseyans to drive carefully so that they and their families arrive safely at their destinations.“

Commuters are asked to use caution as they travel throughout the state. Christie said the storm is expected to continue into the evening, bringing rain, snow, mixed precipitation and strong winds. No driving restrictions have been issued for the state's roadways.

Claude Brodesser-Akner may be reached at cbrodesser@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @claudebrodesser. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.