Worcester, Massachusetts – Roads across central and eastern Massachusetts could become impassable within hours as heavy snow and 55 mph wind gusts move in by 4 p.m. Sunday, threatening the Monday morning commute and stranding drivers overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect from 4 p.m. Sunday until 7 a.m. Tuesday for central, northeastern and western parts of the state. Forecasters expect 12 to 22 inches of snow, with sustained winds strong enough to create near-zero visibility and drifting snow across major highways.
In Worcester County, including Worcester, Milford and Barre, snowfall rates could exceed 1 to 2 inches per hour Sunday night. I-290, I-190 and stretches of the Massachusetts Turnpike may see rapid deterioration after sunset. In Middlesex County, Lowell, Framingham and Ayer face blowing snow and reduced visibility, especially on Route 2 and I-495. Hampden and Hampshire counties, including Springfield and Northampton, could see tree damage and scattered power outages as gusts approach 55 mph.
Travel should be limited to emergencies only. Drivers who must head out should carry a winter survival kit, charge mobile devices and allow extra time. If stranded, stay inside your vehicle.
Conditions may slowly improve after daybreak Tuesday, but additional advisories remain possible as cleanup begins statewide.
