Historic Blizzard Batters New England: Travel Crippled, Thousands Without Power
A major winter storm is unleashing heavy snowfall, fierce winds, and treacherous conditions across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, prompting widespread closures, travel bans, and emergency declarations.
A powerful nor’easter began impacting the region Sunday morning, rapidly escalating into a full-blown blizzard. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings, forecasting snowfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour at times. Total accumulations are predicted to reach 12-22 inches in the hardest-hit areas, with slightly lower amounts expected on Cape Cod, the islands, and block Island. Snow began falling in western Massachusetts Sunday morning, and by late Sunday afternoon, Boston was already experiencing notable accumulation, with 7 to 11 inches reported and another 10 to 14 inches anticipated overnight.
The storm’s intensity is compounded by strong winds, gusting up to 28 mph, creating blizzard-like conditions and considerably reducing visibility. Temperatures are frigid, with highs near 26 degrees and lows near 10 degrees, resulting in wind chills dipping to -3 degrees. Forecasters warn that some areas, particularly Boston and the North Shore, could see up to 20 inches of snow by Monday. Minor sleet and ice are also possible across the south coast of New England by Monday morning.
Travel Chaos and Emergency Response
The NWS has issued stark warnings about the dangers of travel,urging motorists to delay all non-essential trips. Roads, particularly bridges and overpasses, are expected to become extremely slick and hazardous. State and local officials are actively deploying emergency response units, anticipating that transportation will be the most heavily impacted.
One traveler stranded at Logan Airport, attempting to reach maine, adding, “It’s not safe to drive, so this is my last-ditch effort to get home.” He acknowledged he would miss work on Monday due to the disruption.
The scene at Logan Airport was described as one of “storm-day frustration,” with travelers grappling with cancellations and delays.
Infrastructure and Community Support
Mayor Michelle Wu has declared a snow emergency in Boston through 8 p.m. Monday, activating a parking ban and towing on major roads. Boston Public Works crews are prepared with 40,000 tons of salt and over 850 pieces of equipment to treat roadways.State roadways have also been pretreated, with more than 3,000 pieces of equipment deployed.
“With over a foot of snow forecasted statewide, we’re encouraging residents to avoid unneeded travel,” stated MassDOT undersecretary and State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver. The MBTA is implementing its weather mitigation plan, including storing buses and trains indoors, cycling doors, and testing critical systems.Commuter Rail lines will operate on a reduced schedule, with approximately one-third of regular weekday service. ferry service will also be reduced.
Forty warming shelters are open across the Commonwealth, and Pine street Inn, a leading provider of services to the homeless, has doubled its street outreach teams, deploying vans equipped with blankets, clothing, warm meals, and hot beverages. As of Sunday,nearly 660 people were in shelters,with occupancy expected to rise. Boston’s emergency shelters are open 24 hours, and amnesty is in place for those with nonviolent restrictions during sub-freezing temperatures.
Boston Public Schools and offices are closed on Monday, along with at least 69 other school districts in the Greater boston area. Several universities, including Tufts, Boston University, Emerson, and WITH, are also closed Monday, while Northeastern University will be remote. Harvard University remains open.
Residents are preparing for an extended period of isolation, as evidenced by scenes at H Mart in Brookline, where shoppers were stocking up on essentials.One Boston University sophomore,Aidan Shen,noted that he and his roommates are keeping the water dripping to prevent pipes from freezing.
Mass General Brigham’s hospitals remain open, providing overnight accommodations and parking for employees.The Animal Rescue League of Boston is urging residents to take precautions to protect pets from the frigid temperatures.
The storm is a stark reminder of the power of winter in New England, and communities are bracing for a challenging 24-48 hours.
