Residents throughout Massachusetts are experiencing a wintry and challenging start to their Saturday morning. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 2 p.m. for central and western parts of the state, with snowfall projections ranging from 1 to 3 inches. In some elevated areas, accumulations may reach up to 6 inches before conditions improve.
The latest snowfall measurements, reported to the National Weather Service as of 8:30 a.m., indicate varied totals across the region:
- Essex County:
- Newburyport: 0.7 inches
- 1 N Methuen: 0.5 inches
- Franklin County:
- 1 WSW Ashfield: 5.5 inches
- 1 W Orange AP: 3.0 inches
- Middlesex County:
- Townsend: 4.0 inches
- 3 NW Townsend: 3.0 inches
- 1 WNW Pepperell: 2.0 inches
- 2 W Townsend: 1.8 inches
- 1 NNW Lexington: 0.6 inches
- 1 SW Lexington: 0.5 inches
- 2 S Lexington: 0.4 inches
- Lexington: 0.4 inches
- Worcester County:
- 1 W Princeton: 7.5 inches
- 1 N Rutland: 7.0 inches
- 1 WNW Ashburnham: 7.0 inches
- 1 WNW Sterling: 7.0 inches
- 1 ESE Fitchburg: 6.0 inches
- 1 SE Hubbardston: 6.0 inches
- 1 ESE Boylston: 5.5 inches
- 1 W Holden: 5.3 inches
- 1 SSE West Boylston: 5.2 inches
- 1 NNW Charlton: 5.1 inches
- Spencer: 5.0 inches
- 1 NE Lunenburg: 5.0 inches
- 2 NNW Royalston: 4.5 inches
- Phillipston: 4.3 inches
- Leicester: 3.0 inches
- 2 SW Westborough: 3.0 inches
- 01 WSW Auburn: 3.0 inches
- Shrewsbury: 3.0 inches
- 1 SSW Berlin: 2.6 inches
- Grafton: 2.0 inches
- Clinton: 1.5 inches
Precipitation is expected to diminish by late morning, with most snow and rain concluding around 10 a.m. However, scattered showers and flurries may persist into the early afternoon, particularly in areas north and west of Boston. Additional rain is predicted to arrive Saturday night, extending into much of Sunday, primarily affecting eastern Massachusetts.
What This Means For You
For residents and commuters in affected regions, the wintry weather poses potential disruptions to daily routines. Road safety can be compromised by snow and ice, increasing the likelihood of travel delays and accidents. Those planning to travel should exercise caution and consider adjusting travel plans accordingly.
For local businesses, especially those reliant on foot traffic, decreased customer visits may affect sales throughout the day. Conversely, businesses offering snow removal and related services may experience increased demand. Residents are advised to remain informed of weather updates and take appropriate measures to ensure personal safety and preparedness. This advisory serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of winter weather, underscoring the importance of staying informed and prepared for changing conditions.
