A powerful winter storm is set to slam into New England this weekend, bringing heavy snow, icy roads, and dangerous travel conditions that could last through Tuesday night. Some areas could see as much as 18 inches of snow, while others will be dealing with a dangerous mix of sleet and freezing rain.
This storm is shaping up to be a long and messy one, so if you haven’t stocked up on essentials, now is the time.
How Much Snow and Ice Are We Talking About?
The biggest snowfall totals will likely hit northern New England, where some towns could end up buried under 18 inches of fresh powder. Meanwhile, central and southern parts of the region are expected to see a wintry mix—meaning snow, sleet, and freezing rain could create a dangerous mess on roads and sidewalks.
In some areas, up to 0.2 inches of ice could accumulate, which may cause tree limbs to snap and power lines to come down. If that happens, power outages could last for hours or even days.
When Will the Storm Arrive?
The first flakes are expected to start Saturday afternoon, with snowfall intensifying into the evening. But things get tricky overnight, as warmer air pushes in and turns the snow into a nasty mix of sleet and freezing rain, especially in southern and central New England.
By Sunday, snowfall will slow down in some areas, but on-and-off snow, ice, and gusty winds will linger well into Tuesday night. That means roads could remain dangerous and icy for days, making the morning and evening commutes a nightmare.
Travel Could Be a Disaster—Stay Off the Roads
Driving conditions will rapidly deteriorate as the storm sets in. Snow-covered roads, icy patches, and poor visibility will make travel incredibly dangerous—especially during the height of the storm Saturday night into Sunday.
If you must drive:
- Check road conditions before heading out
- Keep an emergency kit in your car (blankets, food, water, flashlight, batteries)
- Drive slowly and increase following distance
- Avoid back roads—main highways are more likely to be treated and plowed
If you don’t have to be on the roads, staying home is your safest bet.
How to Prepare for the Storm
With a multi-day storm like this, power outages, dangerous roads, and freezing conditions are real concerns. Here’s how to get ready:
- Stock up on groceries and essentials (milk, bread, batteries, medications
- Charge phones and devices in case of power outages
- Prepare for possible blackouts—have flashlights, extra blankets, and a backup heat source if possible
- Check on elderly neighbors or those who may need extra help before the storm hits
What Happens After the Storm?
Freezing temperatures will keep the sidewalks slick and the roads treacherous long after the snow has stopped falling. Some places may take days to recover from the most intense snowfall, and black ice will be a serious problem.
Patience will be essential, especially in places where ice makes cleaning considerably more difficult, even though plows and salt trucks will be working overtime.