As a powerful nor’easter barrels toward New Jersey, residents are scrambling to prepare — only to find that a critical winter staple is nearly impossible to come by.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for all 21 counties from Sunday through Monday evening, with the heaviest snow expected Sunday night into Monday morning. Forecasters warn of 5 to 12 inches of snow, with the highest totals likely in South Jersey and along the Shore. Wind gusts up to 50 mph could create blizzard-like conditions, along with coastal flooding and beach erosion.

Meteorologists say the storm’s path has been unusually difficult to predict, with computer models offering conflicting scenarios. Still, confidence is increasing that this will be a significant event. Some forecasts even suggest the possibility of thundersnow in southeastern parts of the state.

Salt Shortages Leave Residents Scrambling

Unfortunately for many New Jerseyans, the storm has brought another headache: Salt is nearly impossible to find.

Hardware stores across South Jersey and beyond report empty shelves and canceled orders. At Westmont Ace Hardware in Haddon Township, owner Bill Getzinger says panic buying has set in.

“People are starting to panic a little bit,” Getzinger told WPVI-TV. “The people that got shut out during the last storm are making sure they have their shovel, they have their salt, and are ready to go.”

Down the road at Cartun Hardware in Camden, the situation is even more dire. Owner David Garrison told WPVI that suppliers have essentially shut down for the season.

“Early January, we got notice that 22 of the 25 different brands of salt were out for the season,” Garrison said. “Right now, there’s no calcium, no blends, no pet safe available from the suppliers.”

Garrison noted that demand this winter has been unlike anything he’s seen before. His store has gone through 19 tons of rock salt this year — more than triple the 6 tons sold last year. Even garden shovels, ordered for spring, have sold out as residents search for any tool to battle the ice.

Towns Are Stocked — For Now

While residents struggle to find salt for their driveways and sidewalks, municipal supplies appear to be in better shape.

Hamilton Township recently received 900 tons of salt, ensuring roads remain passable. Egg Harbor City secured 100 tons — enough for roughly two storms. According to WPVI, the town, like many others in the region, had been facing a salt shortage in recent weeks.

State transportation officials say they are prepared as well. PennDOT reports having 60,000 tons on hand and plans to pretreat major roadways ahead of the storm.

What Residents Can Do

With salt shelves empty and suppliers unable to restock, residents are being urged to get creative:

- Use sand or kitty litter for traction on icy walkways

1. - Shovel early and often to prevent ice from forming
2. - Stay indoors if possible once the snow begins
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For many, the frustration goes beyond logistics. As Cherry Hill resident Eric Davies told WPVI: “Very sick of it, ready for spring. That first nice day of being able to open the windows and get some fresh air in the house.”

That day may still be weeks away. For now, New Jersey is digging in for one more winter storm.