Southern New England – A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect across much of southern New England on New Year’s Day, with accumulating snow and gusty winds expected to affect travel through early Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, the advisory continues until 1 p.m. EST and covers portions of northern Connecticut, central and southeastern Massachusetts, and nearly all of Rhode Island. Areas included range from Tolland and Windham counties in Connecticut to Worcester County, the east slopes of the Berkshires, coastal and southeastern Massachusetts, and all of Rhode Island except Block Island.
Forecasters expect additional snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches before the system tapers off. Winds may gust as high as 35 mph, which could lead to areas of blowing snow and reduced visibility, particularly in open and coastal locations.
The National Weather Service warned that road conditions are likely to remain slippery through the morning and into the early afternoon hours. Even where snowfall rates are light, untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses may become snow-covered or icy.
The hazardous conditions could impact the New Year’s Day morning commute and midday travel, especially for drivers heading into urban centers such as Worcester, Providence, Brockton, New Bedford, and surrounding communities. Coastal and southeast Massachusetts, including Plymouth County, Bristol County, and Cape Cod, may also see lingering travel impacts as snow continues.
Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra travel time. Officials recommend using caution on secondary roads and neighborhood streets, which may be slower to be treated.
While conditions are expected to gradually improve later in the afternoon, lingering slick spots may persist after snowfall ends, particularly in shaded or higher-elevation areas.
Residents and travelers across southern New England are encouraged to remain alert to changing road conditions until the advisory expires later Thursday.
