15 Mar 2023 | 06:03 AM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast over northeastern regions through at least March 15 /update 1
Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of the northeastern US through at least March 15. Power outages ongoing.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the northeastern US through at least March 15. A nor'easter storm system will bring heavy snowfall to New England through March 15. The heaviest snowfall is forecast to diminish late March 14, but additional snowfall of 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) is possible across parts of Vermont, northern New Hampshire, and northern Maine. Hazardous driving conditions are likely across the affected area due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Heavy snowfall could lead to power outages and tree damage due to the weight of the snow. Authorities declared a state of emergency for counties in the eastern part of New York, north of Westchester County as well as for Warren, Sussex, Morris, Passaic, and Bergen counties in New Jersey late March 13.
Around 1,150 flights across the affected area were canceled March 14, with the worst affected being LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). All northbound lanes of Interstate 95 on the Piscataqua River Bridge between Maine and New Hampshire were temporarily closed March 14 after trucks were stuck on the bridge due to icy conditions. More than 78,000 people in Maine, 75,000 in New Hampshire, 42,000 in New York, 33,000 in Massachusetts, and 27,000 in Vermont are without power.
Government Advisories
As of early March 15, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for parts of central and eastern New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, southern and central New Hampshire, and southern Maine. Winter weather advisories are in place across much of the rest of the affected area. 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.
