Introduction

As the winter season is in full swing, Massachusetts is bracing itself for another significant snowstorm this weekend. The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions to the region. Residents are eager to know when the snow is forecast to start and end, and the latest storm timeline provides crucial information to help them prepare. In this article, we will delve into the details of the storm timeline, exploring when the snow is expected to start and end in Massachusetts, particularly in Boston. We will also examine the expected snowfall totals, wind speeds, and other relevant factors that will impact the state this weekend.

Storm Timeline: When to Expect Snow in Boston

According to the latest weather forecast, the snow is expected to start falling in Boston on Saturday morning, with the first flurries arriving around 6:00 AM. The snowfall will gradually intensify throughout the morning, with the heaviest snowfall rates expected between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. During this period, snowfall rates of up to 1-2 inches per hour are possible, leading to rapidly deteriorating travel conditions.

The storm is expected to peak in intensity around 2:00 PM, with snowfall rates reaching their highest levels. At this point, the snow will be falling heavily, with visibility reduced to less than a quarter mile at times. The strong winds will also lead to significant drifting and blowing snow, making travel extremely hazardous.

As the storm begins to wind down, the snowfall rates will gradually decrease, with the snow tapering off to light flurries by around 8:00 PM. However, the winds will remain strong, leading to continued blowing and drifting snow, especially in areas with significant snow cover.

Snowfall Totals and Wind Speeds

The snowfall totals for this weekend's storm are expected to be significant, with widespread totals of 6-12 inches expected across Massachusetts. The highest totals will be found in the western and central parts of the state, where 12-18 inches of snow are possible. In Boston, snowfall totals of 8-12 inches are expected, with the highest totals found in the northern and western suburbs.

In addition to the heavy snowfall, strong winds will also be a major factor in this storm. Sustained winds of 20-30 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 40-50 mph at times. These strong winds will lead to significant blowing and drifting snow, making travel conditions extremely hazardous.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has issued a winter storm warning for the entire state, effective from 6:00 AM Saturday to 10:00 PM Sunday. The warning highlights the potential for heavy snowfall, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions, and urges residents to exercise extreme caution when traveling.

Preparations and Safety Measures

As the storm approaches, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has announced that it will be deploying over 3,000 pieces of equipment to clear roads and highways, including plows, salt trucks, and sanders.

Residents are advised to stay indoors during the storm, avoiding travel unless absolutely necessary. If travel is necessary, drivers should exercise extreme caution, reducing their speed and leaving plenty of space between vehicles. The Massachusetts State Police have also announced that they will be increasing patrols on major highways, providing assistance to stranded motorists and enforcing traffic laws.

In preparation for the storm, many schools and businesses have announced closures or delayed openings. Residents are advised to check with their local school districts or employers for the latest information on closures and delays.

Case Study: Winter Storm of 2015

The winter storm of 2015, which brought over 30 inches of snow to Boston, provides a useful case study for this weekend's storm. The 2015 storm, which occurred in January of that year, was a powerful nor'easter that brought heavy snowfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding to the region.

The storm had a significant impact on the state, with thousands of people stranded in their homes, and many more forced to evacuate due to flooding. The storm also had a major economic impact, with estimated losses of over $1 billion.

This weekend's storm is not expected to be as severe as the 2015 storm, but it still has the potential to cause significant disruptions. Residents are advised to take the necessary precautions, staying informed about the latest weather forecast and taking steps to ensure their safety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the storm timeline for this weekend's snowstorm in Massachusetts shows that the snow is expected to start falling in Boston on Saturday morning, with the heaviest snowfall rates expected between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The storm is expected to bring significant snowfall totals, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions to the region.

Residents are advised to take necessary precautions, staying indoors during the storm and avoiding travel unless absolutely necessary. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) are working to prepare for the storm, deploying equipment and personnel to clear roads and highways.

As the storm approaches, it is essential for residents to stay informed about the latest weather forecast and take steps to ensure their safety. By doing so, we can minimize the impact of the storm and keep our communities safe. Stay tuned for further updates, and stay safe this weekend.