Massachusetts Residents Prepare for More Snow After Heavy Storm Hits
Massachusetts is bracing for more snow following a substantial winter storm that impacted the region over the weekend. Residents woke up to significant snow accumulation on Monday morning, with totals exceeding a foot in many areas. Conditions are expected to worsen, with forecasts predicting up to 2 feet of snow in some towns.
Current Weather Conditions and Predictions
Forecasters anticipate that snowfall will diminish between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Monday. Meteorologist Danielle Noyes stated that temperatures will remain in the teens and 20s, with chilling wind gusts resulting in a potential wind chill as low as minus 10 degrees.
Areas Affected by Heavy Snow
- Essex County
- Worcester County
- Southern New England
Reports from the National Weather Service in Boston indicate that towns in Essex and Worcester Counties are experiencing the highest snowfall totals, with some reporting around 20 inches by late Sunday.
Safety Warnings and Travel Disruptions
A winter storm warning remains in effect until 8 p.m. Monday, with an additional forecast of 1 to 5 inches of snow. As conditions deteriorate, arduous travel is expected, and drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution.
Impact on Transportation
Logan Airport is notably affected, with operations nearly halted due to 18 inches of snow and over 500 flights canceled. Ed Freni, the director of aviation at the Massachusetts Port Authority, recommends that travelers check their flight status before heading to the airport.
Wider Implications of the Storm
This storm didn’t only affect Massachusetts; it disrupted operations across two-thirds of the nation. Nearly a million power outages were recorded in Southern states, alongside thousands of canceled flights and multiple vehicle accidents.
Tragic Incidents and Caution Advisories
On a grim note, a tragic incident in Massachusetts resulted in the death of a 51-year-old woman, struck by a plow truck near the MBTA Norwood Central station. Her husband was injured but is expected to recover.
Approximately 850 customers in Massachusetts faced power outages on Monday morning, though this number decreased by afternoon. Governor Maura Healey has cautioned residents, particularly in coastal areas, about potentially severe weather and its impacts on power availability.
State Response and Community Preparedness
In response to the storm, Governor Healey urged residents to stay off the roads. Schools and businesses across Massachusetts closed their doors for the day, and non-essential state employees were asked to work remotely.
Additionally, the state set up 40 warming shelters with a combined capacity of approximately 2,000 people to aid those in need during this challenging weather event.
