Governor Murphy has declared a state of emergency due to a propane shortage caused by a service disruption at a major distribution plant over in Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania.

It comes just as the state is bracing for a deep freeze, including the roughly 186,000 residents who rely on propane to keep their homes warm.

The problem traces back to a November power outage at that distribution plant.

Since then, operations have been intermittent, creating long delays for delivery trucks and tightening supply across New Jersey.

State officials still aren't naming the specific facility involved.

To ease the crunch, Governor Murphy's order temporarily relaxes federal rules, letting propane truck drivers work up to 14 hours a day instead of the usual 11.

There's no timeline for when the shortage might end, but the order stays in place until the emergency is over.

In the meantime, residents can find updates and warming center information at ready.nj.gov and NJ 2-1-1.

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