First Major Winter Storm Warning Targets Northeast With Foot of Snow

The National Weather Service has upgraded advisories to urgent Winter Storm Warnings across multiple states. Millions from New York to Maine are bracing for the season’s first major snow event starting Tuesday, December 2. Heavy snowfall and dangerous travel are expected.

Officials warn this storm could disrupt the Tuesday commute with significant accumulations. The warnings highlight a swift change from earlier forecasts as the storm’s intensity became clear.

Widespread Upgrades Signal Dangerous Conditions

The NWS offices in Albany and Binghamton, New York, issued their warnings Monday afternoon. Offices in Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont quickly followed. This moved numerous areas from a standard advisory to a more severe warning status.

Impacted regions include southern Vermont and western Massachusetts. Southern New Hampshire, southern Maine, and eastern New York are also under warnings. The NWS forecast suggests some areas could see over a foot of snow.

Travel is expected to become very difficult. The NWS office in Gray, Maine, warned of periods of moderate to heavy snow causing low visibility. They stated the hazardous conditions could impact both the morning and evening commutes on Tuesday.

Broader System Brings Season’s First Widespread Impact

This storm represents the first widespread, impactful winter weather of the season for the Northeast. According to a Washington Post analysis, much of the U.S. has already seen above-average snowfall this fall. This event continues that active pattern.

The immediate concern is for treacherous road conditions during snowfall. Longer-term, the storm sets a precedent for an active winter season. Residents are urged to prepare for potential power outages and travel delays.

With a critical Winter Storm Warning now in effect, residents across the interior Northeast should finalize preparations and avoid travel. This major early-season storm is poised to deliver a disruptive and hazardous blanket of snow.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Which states are under a Winter Storm Warning?

As of Monday afternoon, warnings are in effect for parts of Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York. Specific counties should check the latest NWS alerts for their area.

Q2: How much snow is expected?

Accumulations of over 6 inches are likely inland, with more than a foot possible in some locations. The heaviest snow is forecast north and west of the I-95 corridor.

Q3: When will the storm be at its worst?

Snow begins early Tuesday morning and continues through the day. The most hazardous travel conditions are expected during the Tuesday morning and evening commute periods.

Q4: What is the difference between an advisory and a warning?

A Winter Weather Advisory means expect inconveniences. A Winter Storm Warning means severe conditions are imminent or occurring, posing a threat to life and property.

Q5: What should travelers do?

The NWS advises delaying unnecessary travel. If travel is a must, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with extra food, water, and a flashlight.