Boston Braces for Impact: Major Blizzard Warning in Effect
Boston, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas are currently under a Blizzard Warning as a powerful nor’easter descends upon the region. The storm, expected to bring upwards of 2 feet of snow to some areas, has already prompted a state of emergency declaration from the Governor. Travel is strongly discouraged, with the worst conditions anticipated from now until 11 a.m. today.
Current Conditions & Forecast
As of 6:15 a.m. this morning, New Bedford, Massachusetts, had already received nearly 10 inches of snow. According to StormTeam 5 Chief Meteorologist Cindy Fitzgibbon, “We are just getting into this. We are going to continue to see these intense bands of snow wrapping around the center of our storm through 11 a.m.”
This season has already seen 43.3 inches of snowfall, and this storm alone could add another 1.5 to 2 feet. The Blizzard Warning encompasses all of eastern and central Massachusetts, extending well beyond I-495 and into parts of western Massachusetts. Blizzard conditions are defined as visibility reduced to a quarter mile or less with sustained winds or frequent gusts of at least 35 mph for three hours.
Dangerous Winds & Potential Power Outages
Winds are expected to peak this morning into midday as the storm’s barometric pressure rapidly drops. Fitzgibbon warns, “The wind, which is ramping up already, won’t peak until midday and won’t come down till about sunset.” Southeastern Massachusetts could experience wind gusts exceeding 70 mph, increasing the risk of widespread power outages.
These strong winds are a key component of the blizzard conditions, creating whiteout conditions that will make travel nearly impossible. StormTeam 5 Meteorologist David Williams emphatically advises, “I can’t stress this enough. Stay off the roads.”
Coastal Flooding Concerns
Coastal communities face an additional threat of flooding as onshore winds push water inland during high tide. A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect south of Boston through this morning, with a Flood Watch extending through Monday night. Areas north of Boston are under a Coastal Flood Advisory.
Looking Ahead: Recovery & Future Storms
Sunshine is expected to return on Tuesday with temperatures near freezing. However, the weather pattern remains active. A chance of light snow is forecast for Wednesday, followed by a break on Thursday. Snow is likely to change to rain on Friday as temperatures approach 40 degrees, with milder weather and melting expected next weekend.
Utility companies, including National Grid and Eversource, have staged hundreds of crews across the state. However, restoration efforts may be hampered by the dangerous conditions. Bucket trucks can typically only operate when winds are below 35 mph.
Stay informed with the latest updates from NBC Boston’s StormTeam 5.
Source: NBC Boston
