A powerful nor’easter poised to impact southeastern New England is raising concerns of significant snowfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding from late Sunday into Monday. This storm could potentially mark the region’s first blizzard in four years.
Rising temperatures in recent weeks have led many to believe that spring is on the horizon, but the prospect of another major snow event has left residents feeling weary. “Devastated” is how Fahad Bunjo, a cashier at Ace Hardware, described the mood as he assisted customers scrambling for last-minute shovels and ice melt. “We got that huge snowstorm, and this one might even be bigger. I’m sick of it,” the 21-year-old shared.
The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for Rhode Island and eastern Massachusetts effective from 4 p.m. on Sunday through 7 a.m. on Tuesday. Forecasts indicate a potential accumulation of 10 to 20 inches of snow, with Boston and surrounding areas possibly receiving up to two feet. Coastal regions are also expected to face wind gusts between 50 and 60 mph by Monday afternoon.
This winter has been particularly harsh for Boston, characterized as one of the coldest in decades, with a significant snowstorm in late January depositing over 23 inches. Many locals are desperate for winter to end. “I just don’t want the cold anymore,” noted Natalia Maine, a 19-year-old student at Simmons University, although she humorously added that a day of canceled classes would be welcomed.
Preparation for the incoming storm is intensifying. Some schools, including those in Worcester and Malden, have already canceled classes for Monday. However, Boston Public Schools are still weighing their options. Snow days impact various aspects, including parents’ childcare plans, highlighting the broader implications of such weather events on daily life.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, along with other officials, will address the public on storm preparedness, while a parking ban will commence at 2 p.m. Sunday to clear major thoroughfares. After previously struggling under winter weather earlier this season, the T has yet to disclose any service changes, though delays and speed restrictions are anticipated on the commuter rail.
The Department of Conservation and Recreation has indicated that parking bans may affect several state-managed roadways, and seven ice rinks will be closed on Monday. Additionally, Amtrak’s northeast division has advised that service adjustments may be on the horizon depending on the storm’s trajectory.
As of Saturday evening, a significant number of flights into and out of Boston Logan International Airport have already been canceled, highlighting the extent of the storm’s anticipated impact. In response to the worsening conditions, Pine Street Inn is prepared to increase its shelter accommodations for the homeless, deploying outreach vans to encourage those in need to seek refuge.
Despite the grim forecast, some residents approach the impending storm with a sense of normalcy. Grocery shoppers expressed a mix of urgency and indifference; as Josh Beck, a Brookline resident, noted, “I mean, they last like one day. Everyone panics.”
As the storm draws near, New Englanders are bracing themselves for what could be another significant winter event, reminding residents of the region’s unpredictable and often harsh weather.