Key Takeaways
- A major snowstorm is expected to hit Massachusetts on Tuesday, with accumulation totals varying across the state
- Western and Central Massachusetts are predicted to receive the most snow, with some areas potentially seeing over 8 inches
- The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for nearly all of Massachusetts, with hazardous driving conditions expected in some areas
- The storm is expected to bring heavy snow, with minimal ice accumulations, and precipitation rates of up to 1.5 inches per hour
- Drivers are advised to use extra caution and expect disruptions to daily life, including closures and disruptions to infrastructure
Introduction to the Storm
The National Weather Service has predicted a major snowstorm to hit Massachusetts on Tuesday, with the chance for more than six inches of snow in some areas. The storm is expected to start on Tuesday morning and last until sunrise on Wednesday, with varying accumulation totals across the state. While some areas, such as Western and Central Massachusetts, are predicted to receive significant snowfall, others, like Boston and the North Shore, are expected to receive less than an inch.
Accumulation Totals and Projected Snowfall
Parts of Western and Central Massachusetts, especially those in higher elevations, are expected to receive the most snow. Areas like Pittsfield, Great Barrington, and Adams in Western Massachusetts are projected to receive up to six inches of snow, with some areas potentially seeing localized amounts over eight inches. In contrast, Springfield and areas along the Interstate 90 corridor may see up to three inches of snow, while Boston and the North Shore are likely to get less than an inch. The National Weather Service has also predicted minimal ice accumulations from the storm.
Winter Storm Impacts and Driving Conditions
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for nearly all of Massachusetts, with hazardous driving conditions expected in some areas. Drivers are advised to use extra caution on Tuesday and to expect disruptions to daily life, including closures and disruptions to infrastructure. The impact map from the National Weather Service shows that Western Massachusetts and higher elevations in Central Massachusetts are considered "hazardous" areas, with the rest of the state considered a "Winter Weather Area". This means that driving conditions will be impacted for most of the state, with some areas potentially seeing significant disruptions.
Winter Storm Outlook and Precipitation Predictions
The winter storm outlook map from the National Weather Service shows that the majority of New England is in for a heavy storm, with the center of the storm appearing to be over New Hampshire. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association has also predicted heavy snow for most of Massachusetts, with a mix of precipitation possible in some areas. However, National Weather Service forecasters have ruled out the chance for freezing rain or an ice storm, with minimal ice accumulations expected.
Snow Rate and Precipitation Timing
Snowfall is projected to begin on Tuesday morning and last through the night, with the precipitation picking up on Tuesday afternoon. The snow rate map from the National Weather Service shows that some areas may see up to 1.5 inches of snow per hour by 1 p.m., though some parts closest to I-90 may only see rates at a half-inch of snow per hour. Though snowfall rates will become lighter overnight, the precipitation may not taper off until Wednesday morning. This means that drivers and residents should be prepared for significant snowfall and potential disruptions to daily life.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, a major snowstorm is expected to hit Massachusetts on Tuesday, with varying accumulation totals and precipitation rates across the state. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for nearly all of Massachusetts, with hazardous driving conditions expected in some areas. Residents and drivers should be prepared for significant snowfall, potential disruptions to daily life, and closures and disruptions to infrastructure. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents can stay safe and minimize the impact of the storm.
