The Boston area is preparing for a significant winter storm this weekend, forecasted to bring over 20 inches of snow. This event marks one of the largest snowfalls the region has experienced in recent years. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings across Southern New England and surrounding areas.
Major Snowfall Forecast
Predictions indicate a widespread accumulation of 10-20 inches of snow throughout Southern New England. The city of Boston will likely be heavily affected, particularly as the storm peaks from Sunday evening into early Monday morning.
Timeline of Snowfall
- Friday Evening: Temperatures will begin to drop as an Arctic cold front moves in.
- Sunday Morning: Light snow is expected to start falling, gradually increasing in intensity throughout the day.
- Sunday Evening (5 PM – 5 AM): The storm will reach its peak, leading to hazardous travel conditions.
- Monday Morning: Snow will continue but lessen in intensity, becoming more scattered.
Cold Temperatures and Wind Chill
Along with the snow, a significant drop in temperature is anticipated. By Saturday morning, temperatures could range from -10 to 10 degrees, with wind chills as low as -25 degrees. These conditions can lead to frostbite in under 30 minutes, prompting caution for those outdoors.
Travel Precautions
Travel conditions will deteriorate rapidly Sunday evening, especially between 7 PM and 7 AM. Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during this timeframe as snow-covered roads will reduce visibility and traction.
Potential Impacts and Variability
Forecast models suggest variability in snowfall amounts based on different geographical factors:
- Coastal areas: These regions may experience a mix of rain and snow, potentially lowering snow totals.
- Far eastern locations: Warmer air from the Atlantic could lead to inconsistent snow accumulation.
- Western areas: Elevated parts of Worcester County may see higher totals due to colder conditions favoring snow accumulation.
Snow Accumulation Ranges
The expected snowfall might range significantly based on conditions:
| Snow Total Range | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Lower End: 6-12 inches | Due to mixing with rain or dry air delaying saturation. |
| Higher End: 18-24+ inches | Cold temperatures sustain accumulation with potential for heavy localized bands. |
Wind Conditions
Unlike typical nor’easters, this storm is not expected to produce severe wind. Northeasterly gusts could reach 20-40 mph near the coastline, but will not be strong enough to create blizzard conditions. Sustained winds must exceed 35 mph for three consecutive hours, which is unlikely in this event.
As preparations for this major winter storm continue, residents are encouraged to monitor updates from local news outlets like El-Balad for the latest information and safety tips. Staying informed will help navigate the challenges ahead as Boston braces for the impending snowfall.
