Massachusetts Prepares for Historic Two Feet of Snow Amid Dangerous Arctic Freeze
A massive winter system is set to dump up to two feet of snow across Massachusetts starting Sunday morning, meteorologists warn travel will be impossible as the storm combines with dangerous sub-zero temperatures. Governor Maura Healey has urged residents to stay off the roads, schools have already announced closures for Monday.
Four Year Snow Drought Ends as Extreme Cold Sets the Stage
This incoming system marks a dramatic shift in regional weather patterns, it represents the most significant winter event for the area since January 2022. Meteorologists note the region has experienced a relatively mild stretch over recent years, however extreme cold has now gripped the state with wind chills dropping to minus 25 degrees. This cold air will create dry and powdery snow, the powder creates different challenges than the heavy wet snow typical of coastal storms.
Forecasters Predict Over Twenty Inches of Accumulation During Sunday Peak
The heaviest snowfall is expected to arrive Sunday evening, snowfall rates could exceed two inches per hour during the overnight period. Most of the state will see between 12 and 20 inches of accumulation, some coastal zones may record up to two feet due to ocean enhancement. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the entire commonwealth, the alert remains active through Monday evening. Strong wind gusts reaching 45 mph will create whiteout conditions, visibility will be near zero on major roadways.
State and City Officials Implement Emergency Protocols for Monday
Mayor Michelle Wu has declared a snow emergency for Boston effective Sunday morning, this action enacts a parking ban on main arteries to allow plows to operate. Governor Healey directed non-essential state employees to work remotely on Monday, she also requested private employers follow suit to keep traffic volume low. The storm timeline indicates a Sunday morning start, the intensity ramps up significantly after sunset. Public transit agency MBTA has switched to storm schedules to protect equipment, the Mattapan trolley line is suspended completely to prevent damage to vintage trains.
Schools Close and Travel Halts as Region Faces Deep Freeze
Educational institutions including Boston Public Schools and Tufts University have canceled Monday classes, this decision reflects the anticipated difficulty of travel and cleanup. Utility companies like Eversource are on high alert, the extreme cold poses risks to the grid despite the lighter nature of the snow. Temperatures will stay below freezing all week, this means zero natural melting will occur and snow piles will remain obstructing sidewalks and streets for days.
Residents should prepare for hazardous conditions and check on vulnerable neighbors, emergency responders emphasize the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from blocked vents. Officials urge the public to remain indoors until the storm passes late Monday.
