A strong winter storm is set to impact the region, bringing significant snowfall from late Sunday into Monday. Following a wintry mix of snow and sleet that will mostly taper off by Saturday morning, the focus will shift to the powerful nor’easter making its way in.
Saturday’s forecast includes more light snow showers, with daytime temperatures reaching the low 30s and nighttime lows in the upper 20s. However, a more substantial weather event is expected to begin late Sunday night when the entire area will see heavy snowfall instead of a mix, unlike recent weather patterns.
The snowfall will continue throughout Monday, severely affecting morning and evening commutes. Southeastern Massachusetts, including the Cape and Islands, is projected to bear the brunt of the storm, with snowfall totals potentially hitting a foot by late Monday. Areas farther from the storm’s center will still experience significant, plowable snow.
Wind will also be a notable factor, with inland gusts reaching 30-40 mph and coastal areas, especially the Cape and islands, possibly seeing gusts of up to 60 mph. Such conditions raise concerns about coastal flooding, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a coastal flood watch for Monday and Tuesday morning’s high tides. This could result in minor to moderate flooding levels between 1 to 3 feet in some areas.
Residents should prepare for Monday morning’s high tide, which will occur around 3 a.m. in cities like Boston, Scituate, and Sandwich, and between 3 and 4 a.m. for Barnstable, Chatham, and Nantucket. The storm is expected to diminish by Monday night, leading to a snow cleanup day on Tuesday with partly sunny skies and temperatures in the low 30s.
Following this storm, the forecast suggests residents may see more chances for a wintry mix later in the week. Everyone should stay informed as conditions develop.