13 Mar 2023 | 10:36 AM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast over northeastern regions through at least March 15
Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of the northeastern US through at least March 15. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the northeastern US through at least March 15. A nor'easter storm system off the Atlantic coast is forecast to initially bring rainfall to coastal parts of the region March 13 before transitioning to snow late March 13-early March 14. The system will bring strong winds gusting up to 80 kph (50 mph) across much of the affected area and heavy snowfall is expected in interior parts of New England. Coastal flooding is possible due to rainfall, rough seas, and high tides. Snowfall accumulations of more than 30 cm (12 inches) are expected in mountainous parts of the affected area and accumulation of more than 20 cm (8 inches) are possible in some areas of lower elevation. Hazardous driving conditions are likely across the affected area due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.
Government Advisories
As of early March 13, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for parts of northeastern Pennsylvania, northern New Jersey, Upstate New York, northern Connecticut, northern Rhode Island, Massachusetts, central and southern Vermont, southern New Hampshire, and southwestern Maine. Winter storm watches have been issued for parts of north-central Connecticut, central Rhode Island, south-central and eastern Massachusetts, central New Hampshire, and southern Maine. Winter weather advisories are in place across much of the rest of the affected area. Coastal flood advisories have been issued for coastal parts of New York and Connecticut, as well as high wind warnings for coastal parts of Massachusetts. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area, especially at higher elevations. Lesser accumulations are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow, and precipitation are less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in some areas. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Flight delays and cancellations are possible due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. If routing shipments by truck through the affected area, plan accordingly for delivery delays. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
