Boston is in for a rough week as a series of three powerful winter storms prepare to hit the region. Snow, ice, and freezing rain are all in the forecast, with each storm bringing its own set of challenges.
While the first system will be relatively minor, the second and third storms could create dangerous travel conditions, disrupt daily life, and lead to power outages in parts of New England.
Breaking Down the Storms—When and Where the Worst Will Hit
The first storm will arrive Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, but it won’t be the worst of the three. This system will primarily affect southeastern Massachusetts, with up to an inch of snow expected in some areas. Boston itself may only see light flurries, but commuters should still be cautious of slick roads Wednesday morning.
The second storm, arriving Wednesday night into Thursday, is the one to watch. This system is much stronger and will bring a messy mix of snow, sleet, freezing rain, and eventually rain.
- Wednesday Night: Snow moves in, accumulating 1 to 2 inches before transitioning.
- Thursday Morning: Warmer air causes snow to change into sleet and freezing rain, leading to ice accumulation and hazardous roads.
- Thursday Afternoon: Temperatures continue to rise, shifting precipitation into a steady rain, melting some of the early snowfall.
This storm will impact Thursday’s morning and evening commutes, with icy roads and reduced visibility creating dangerous driving conditions.
The third and final storm will arrive Saturday evening into Sunday and could be just as disruptive as Thursday’s system.
- Saturday Night: Snow begins, with accumulations depending on how much cold air lingers.
- Overnight into Sunday: Another transition to freezing rain and rain is expected, making roads slick and increasing the risk of power outages due to ice accumulation.
What This Means for Boston Residents
With three storms back-to-back, roads will remain messy for most of the week. Here’s how this could affect daily life:
- Dangerous Travel Conditions: Thursday and Sunday will be the worst for driving, with snow, ice, and rain creating slick and unpredictable roads.
- Flight Delays and Cancellations: Expect potential disruptions at Logan Airport, especially on Thursday and Sunday mornings.
- Power Outages Possible: Ice buildup on power lines and trees could lead to scattered outages across parts of Massachusetts.
- Flooding Concerns: Rain falling on snow-covered ground could lead to street flooding and drainage issues, particularly in low-lying areas.
- Grocery & Supply Rush: As with any winter storm, expect an increase in demand for essentials like groceries, road salt, and firewood—get what you need before the storm arrives.
How to Stay Safe and Prepared
With multiple storms rolling in, preparation is key. Here’s how to stay ahead of the weather:
- Limit Travel: If you can avoid driving Thursday morning and Sunday morning, do it. If you must drive, use extreme caution and allow extra time.
- Stock Up on Essentials: Grab groceries, batteries, and emergency supplies now to avoid last-minute panic.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Charge devices, have flashlights ready, and check your heating system in case ice knocks out power.
- Shovel & Salt Early: If snow transitions to freezing rain, it will create a layer of ice on top of the snow. Clearing sidewalks and driveways early will prevent a dangerous ice buildup.
- Stay Informed: Check the forecast frequently, as storm tracks could shift, changing snow and ice totals.
Final Thoughts
Boston is no stranger to winter storms, but three in one week is no small event. While Tuesday’s system will be minor, Thursday and Sunday could bring major disruptions to travel and daily life.
By preparing now, staying off the roads when conditions are worst, and keeping an eye on the latest updates, you can navigate this stormy week safely.
