Boston, Massachusetts – New projections from computer models suggest that some of the largest cities in Massachusetts may escape the worst of an approaching nor’easter. However, concerns about strong winds, power outages, and dangerous travel conditions persist. The latest forecast indicates that the heaviest snowfall is likely to occur south of the Massachusetts Turnpike, prompting StormTeam 5 to revise its expected snowfall amounts for much of the state.
Parts of eastern Massachusetts, particularly from the greater Boston area southward to Cape Cod and the Islands, are under a winter storm warning until early Wednesday morning. As a result, numerous school districts have already announced closures for Tuesday in anticipation of the storm. In addition, Governor Maura Healey and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu have advised non-essential employees to stay home from work to ensure their safety.
A high wind warning has also been issued for Cape Cod and the Islands, further alerting residents to the potential impact of the impending weather. Governor Healey emphasized the need for preparation and safety measures, urging residents to take precautions to safeguard their homes and travel carefully on snow-covered roads. The storm is expected to hit southern New England early Tuesday, starting as rain before transitioning to heavy, wet snow.
Chief meteorologist Cindy Fitzgibbon of StormTeam 5 revealed that the storm’s trajectory has shifted southward, resulting in the heaviest snowfall in southeastern Massachusetts. Although the snowfall rates may still reach up to an inch per hour, the storm is projected to impact travel conditions on the roads. Moderate coastal flooding and beach erosion are also likely, particularly during Tuesday’s early afternoon high tide, prompting the issuance of coastal flood warnings for Cape Cod, the Islands, and the east-facing coastline of Massachusetts.
Forecasters anticipate wind gusts of 40 mph or greater, with Cape Cod and the islands potentially experiencing gusts reaching 50 mph. The storm comes on the heels of record-high temperatures just days before, with Boston tying the February 10 record high of 60 degrees and Worcester breaking the previous record with a high of 57 degrees. As the storm moves out, the region will experience drier conditions on Tuesday night, although winds will persist as temperatures drop. This is expected to create colder conditions in the wake of the storm, extending into Valentine’s Day and beyond.