Gov. Murphy signs order directing residents to stay at home; coronavirus cases now at 1,327

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UPDATED: 3:45 p.m. 

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Gov. Phil Murphy has signed an executive order directing all New Jersey residents to stay at home. All gatherings are canceled, and all non-essential businesses must close their physical stores by 9 p.m. Saturday night until further notice. 

With 442 new positive coronavirus cases, the state total is now at 1,327. Murphy also announced five additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the state total to 16.

He urged those who have homes at the Jersey Shore to not go to them as the health care infrastructure, he said, is unprepared for the influx of people. 

Residents can still take a walk or go for a run outside, but if residents do so, he urged everyone to continue practicing social distancing. People can still go buy groceries, visit friends or family, visit their doctor, or go to work. 

The order also means all gatherings, including weddings, parties, and funerals, are off.

State officials have set up a website to help answer questions and guide residents, as well as businesses. 

To see a list of essential businesses that can stay open, and for more information on the executive order, click here.