A state of emergency was declared across all 21 counties in New Jersey on Thursday afternoon as severe storms threatened the region with heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and flash flooding. Acting governor Tahesha Way activated the order at 2 pm, urging residents to stay off the roads and take necessary precautions against the worsening weather conditions.“Beginning this afternoon, we are expecting severe thunderstorms to bring heavy rainfall and damaging wind gusts with the potential for flash flooding across the state,” said Way according to the official site of the state of New Jersey.“I urge all New Jerseyans to remain alert, follow all safety protocols, and monitor the proper channels for the duration of these storms. Residents should remain off the roads and indoors unless absolutely necessary.”Rainfall totals between 1 to 3 inches are expected, with some locations possibly receiving up to 7 inches. Officials have cautioned that the storms could cause landslides, rock slides, and flooding on roads.As a result, all state offices, including the Motor Vehicle Commission, will close early. Customers with canceled appointments will receive a courtesy return pass, reported News 12.Several parks and pools in Union County are closing early today, including the Walter E Ulrich Memorial Pool in Rahway, River Park and Wheeler Spray Park in Linden, and Cedar Brook Park and Greenbrook Park in Plainfield due to the high risk of flooding.