Massachusetts is facing a major storm, similar to the infamous Blizzard of ’78, leaving hundreds of thousands without power. Governor Maura Healey declared a travel ban for southeastern regions, which includes Bristol, Plymouth, and Barnstable counties, to help with cleanup efforts. “We need the roads clear for restoration work,” she mentioned during a press briefing.
The travel ban allows essential workers—like those in healthcare and emergency services—to go about their duties. Anyone caught violating the ban could face a $500 fine.
Many municipalities are expected to keep workers home again on Tuesday, and school districts, including Boston Public Schools, have canceled classes for the day. “Stay off the roads,” Healey advised, emphasizing the need for patience as conditions may linger through the night.
As of late afternoon, over 280,000 people in the eastern part of the state were without power, with Cape Cod enduring the brunt of the storm. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency reports that nearly all customers on the outer Cape lost power. Doug Foley, an executive at Eversource, indicated it could take three to five days for complete power restoration. Anyone needing warmth can reach out to local shelters.
This storm is serious. It met blizzard criteria in Boston earlier, with visibility dropping to a quarter mile and wind gusts surpassing 35 mph. Snow accumulation has been impressive, with some areas reporting up to 33.5 inches. Providence even broke a record for snowfall that stood since the Blizzard of ’78.
State Highway Administrator Johnathan Gulliver expects major highways to be mostly clear by Tuesday morning, but local roads may take longer. Over 3,000 snow plows are currently working on the job, and speed limits on major roads have been reduced. Wind gusts at Logan Airport reached 59 mph, posing additional risks.
The storm’s effects aren’t limited to Massachusetts alone. Regions from Maryland to Maine are experiencing similar severe weather, with several states reporting over a foot of snow. Thankfully, coastal flooding appears less severe than anticipated.
The MBTA has cut services significantly, urging commuters to stay home if possible. Reduced train, bus, and subway services are in effect, with some ferry routes completely suspended. MBTA COO Ryan Colohan noted that cleanup may take several days, given the volume of snow and wind conditions.
Meanwhile, Logan Airport is expecting no flights today due to whiteout conditions, with efforts focused on keeping at least one runway open for emergencies. Amtrak has canceled all trains between New York and Boston through Monday.
In these trying times, it’s important to stay informed and safe. For further updates on the storm and potential impacts, check authoritative sources like the National Weather Service.
