Gov. Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency beginning at 2 p.m. Wednesday in anticipation of a winter storm that is forecasted to dump up to 18 inches of snow in some parts of New Jersey.

Here's what you need to know about a state of emergency in New Jersey.

What is a state of emergency?

It is a declaration by the governor that makes available a wide array of state resources — from safety personnel to debris removal equipment — to help local communities cope with extreme weather events or other disasters. It also allows the state to mobilize the New Jersey National Guard or to use certain federal assets belonging to them, such as high-wheeled vehicles, ready-to-eat meals and generators.

Forecast: Snow on way for most of state, rain expected south

Does a state of emergency include a travel ban?

In most cases, no. 

“A state of emergency doesn’t mean travel ban,” explained Laura Connolly, a public information officer with the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management. “A travel ban is something we only do in very, very extreme circumstances because that means closing down interstates and state roads.”

But local and county officials can issue their own emergency declarations that include restrictions on movement for public safety reasons. And in many cases, staying off the roads may be prudent regardless of a travel ban. Drivers can check road conditions and travel updates at 511nj.org.

NJ weather:  What we know about major storm poised to bring snow, wind, coastal flooding

For Wednesday's storm, a commercial truck restriction is in place along the interstate highways but doesn't apply to the New Jersey Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway to exit 105 or Atlantic City Expressway

Will businesses and schools close?

The state cannot tell private businesses or schools when to close. However, local officials may enact restrictions under local emergency declarations. School closings are left up to individual districts. 

A state of emergency does not automatically shut state offices, but Murphy has announced that all state offices will close at 1 p.m. on Wednesday.

How can I receive updates?

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management posts updates on its social media accounts and on its website, ready.nj.gov. The state can also disseminate information through the Emergency Alert System, law enforcement agencies, Department of Transportation highway signs and media outlets.

Information about local closures and conditions will generally come from local officials.