A winter weather system is set to impact southern New England this evening, bringing with it a mix of freezing conditions and potential ice accumulation. As temperatures dip to near or below freezing, areas particularly vulnerable to slick roads include central Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire, especially along the outer Route 2 and the Merrimack Valley.
The forecast suggests that ice accumulation could reach around 0.10 inches in most affected areas, with localized pockets seeing up to 0.20 inches. This could lead to hazardous travel conditions and the possibility of power outages where accumulations are greatest.
To ensure safety, the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the region, effective tonight at 7 p.m. through 10 a.m. Wednesday. This alert covers major areas, including Boston and the Greater Boston area, urging residents to prepare for slippery sidewalks and roadways. It’s advisable to salt walkways to prevent slips during the early morning commute on Wednesday.
As the storm progresses, precipitation is expected to transition to rain by mid-morning on Wednesday, gradually tapering off in the afternoon. Following this wintry spell, southern New England is set to experience a warming trend starting Thursday that will last through the weekend, with temperatures climbing into the 40s and potentially nearing 50 degrees at times. However, this mild weather will be accompanied by a chance of rain on Friday, Saturday evening, and early Sunday.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated on the changing weather conditions and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this transitional phase.