Though Boston has seen no shortage of snow this winter, it isn’t over yet!
According to the National Weather Service, a nor’easter is on its way to hit Boston, additional parts of Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island late tonight through tomorrow (February 13). Here are the latest predictions and closures you need to know!
How much will it snow in Boston?
The storm will be short in time, but big in effects — promising snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour (with potential for 3 inches per hour).
It will be a tough day for travel as the most snow will fall right between typical work hours — from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is recommended that Bostonians stay off the roads and remain home if possible.
The snow will begin tonight (February 12), and then continue through tomorrow throughout most of the day, likely not stopping until around 5 p.m. It will hit its peak tomorrow (February 13) in the mid-afternoon.
Are there any official advisories in effect?
Earlier today, the City of Boston declared a “Snow Emergency” and parking ban that will begin tonight (2/12) at 10 p.m. This means that starting at 10 p.m. any vehicles left parked on major roads and main arteries will be towed.
“With the arrival of our first major snowstorm this winter, City teams are prepared to clear our roadways and respond to any emergencies during the storm,” said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu of the snowstorm. “Please be aware of parking restrictions so that we can clear the roads as quickly as possible, and check on your neighbors, family, and friends to be sure everyone has a plan to stay inside and stay safe.”
According to NBC Boston, the city hasn’t witnessed more than four inches of snow over the past two years, so it could mark a recent record.
Will Boston schools be closed? Any other buildings?
The city also announced that Boston Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday, February 13 — along with Boston City Hall, the Boston Public Library, all BCYF community centers, and other municipal buildings. The City encourages residents to “please stay home, if possible.”
What other rules should Bostonians know about?
There have been some other changes made due to the impending storm. See them as follows:
- Trash and recycling pick-up will start two hours early on Tuesday, February 13 at 4 a.m. The city has encouraged residents to place their trash and recycling on the curb tonight
- Night-time street sweeping on main roads, arteries, and commercial roads is canceled until further notice
- Parking is not allowed in BPS school parking lots during snowstorms, and cars found parked there could be towed
- Sign up for emergency notifications through AlertBoston to get in-the-moment updates; you can also find weather and safety tips on the Boston.gov website here.
Of course, it’s quite a change from the record warmth Boston just experienced this past weekend. Make sure you switch gears, bundle up and stay safe!