Massachusetts is bracing for a significant winter storm this weekend, with up to 8 inches of fresh snow expected in certain regions. According to forecasts from the National Weather Service, snowfall will begin early Saturday morning and is predicted to taper off after nightfall. Statewide, residents can anticipate between two to four inches, while localized bands in the North Shore region may see up to 8 inches of snow.
The storm will be accompanied by dangerously cold temperatures, with a cold weather advisory set to take effect Saturday night, continuing into Sunday afternoon. These frigid conditions will lead to hazardous wind chills, potentially dropping as low as 30 degrees below zero in Western and Central Massachusetts, particularly away from the coast.
The snowfall is likely to cause disruptions, especially around Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and the North Shore, where impacts could hinder daily activities and pose challenges for travelers. Authorities are advising residents to exercise caution on the roads, as widespread infrastructure closures may occur due to the adverse weather conditions.
In anticipation of exceeding initial snowfall warnings, forecasters are keeping a close watch on the bands of heavy snow that could move across Eastern Massachusetts, particularly in Greater Boston and areas near Worcester. These conditions could escalate, making for a challenging weekend ahead.
As the storm unfolds, it serves as a reminder for residents to prepare for extreme weather and to look out for one another as well as pets and plants during this harsh winter event. The impending storm reflects broader weather patterns impacting states across the Northeast and Midwest, making the Northeast’s particular situation noteworthy as it gears up for the significant snowfall.