A Coastal Storm Poised to Blanket New England in Snow
Anticipation and Uncertainties Surround the Approaching Weather System
The echoes of rain fade, and now, all eyes are on a brewing coastal storm, a meteorological phenomenon poised to transform New England into a winter wonderland. Snowfall is expected to paint much of the region white, with higher elevations bracing for up to a foot of accumulation.
Navigating the Storm’s Progression
The storm’s arrival will be heralded by a mix of rain and sleet or freezing rain on Sunday morning. By early Monday, as colder air descends upon the region, the precipitation will transition entirely to snowfall. The interplay between the cold front and shifting winds will ultimately determine the exact location of the snow/rain boundary.
Snowfall Projections: A Varied Landscape
Meteorologists have issued snowfall estimates for various areas within New England:
- Boston Area: 2 to 4 inches
- Worcester County: 4 to 8 inches
- Berkshires: 5 to 10 inches
- New Hampshire: 4 to 8 inches in southern regions; 1 to 2 inches in central to northern parts
- Vermont: Approximately 5 inches in the Brattleboro area; 2 to 3 inches in surrounding areas up to central Vermont
- Maine: 3 to 4 inches in southern and central regions
Winter Storm Watch Issued
In anticipation of the storm’s impact, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm watch for the Berkshires and much of central and northern Massachusetts, effective from Sunday morning through Monday. This advisory highlights the potential for heavy snow, with accumulations ranging from 5 to 10 inches. Gusty winds, reaching speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, are also anticipated.
Navigating the Storm’s Timing
As of Friday afternoon, the NWS outlined the anticipated progression of the storm:
- Boston Area:
- Sunday morning: Rain commences
- Sunday, 6 p.m.: A wintry mix of precipitation (snow, rain, and freezing rain)
- Sunday, 9 p.m. to 10 p.m.: Rain transitions to snow
- Monday by 6 a.m.: Complete transition to snowfall
- Monday afternoon: Snowfall begins to taper off
- Worcester Area:
- Sunday, 6 a.m.: Rain begins, transitioning to a mix of precipitation at noon
- Monday, 1 a.m.: Snowfall commences
- Berkshires:
- Overnight Saturday: Snowfall begins
- New Hampshire:
- Sunday: A mix of rain and snow across southern New Hampshire
- Sunday night: Precipitation transitions entirely to snow
- Vermont:
- Sunday, 4 to 8 p.m.: Snowfall commences
- Sunday, 10 p.m. to midnight: Snowfall diminishes in central Vermont
- Monday, midnight to 2 a.m.: Snowfall tapers off in southern Vermont
Elusive Rain/Snow Line: A Forecasting Challenge
The NWS continues to monitor coastal fronts and wind direction to determine the precise location of the snow/rain boundary in Southern New England. The lack of preceding colder air and the influx of maritime air pose challenges in accurately forecasting snow accumulations.
New Hampshire and Maine: A Mix of Snow and Wintry Precipitation
New Hampshire and Maine will experience a mix of snow and wintry precipitation. The higher elevations of southwest and south-central New Hampshire may see light snow accumulations during the day, while the Merrimack Valley and points eastward will primarily experience rain.
Vermont: Southern Regions to Bear the Brunt
Up to 5 inches of snow is forecast for mainly southern portions of Vermont, with 2 to 3 inches expected in the central part of the state.
The Elusive Rain/Snow Line: A Forecasting Enigma
The precise location of the snow/rain line remains uncertain, with the NWS closely monitoring coastal fronts and wind direction to determine its exact position.
Monday Morning Commute: Navigating the Snowy Roads
The snow and wintry mix pose potential hazards for early Monday commuters, particularly on untreated roads and highways. The NWS advises allowing extra time for travel and exercising caution on potentially slick surfaces.
Adapting to the Changing Weather Landscape
As the storm approaches, residents are urged to stay informed about the latest weather updates and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the wintery conditions.
Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the spectacle of winter’s icy embrace.