Snow squalls threaten whiteouts, dangerous roads across Mass. on New Year’s Eve
Forecasters warn snow squalls across Massachusetts could lead to "whiteout" conditions for periods of time on New Year's Eve, cautioning those heading out for celebrations to take care on the roads.
A Winter Weather Advisory has expanded to include counties in the Berkshires, Central Massachusetts, southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard, according to the National Weather Service.
"An initial period of light to moderate snow is expected this evening before an arctic cold front results in snow squalls during the pre-dawn hours of New Year`s Day," forecasters said.
"Any snow squall can result in brief periods of whiteout conditions and hazardous travel conditions. Use caution if traveling tonight forany New Year`s Eve celebrations."
The light to moderate snowfall is expected to begin in Western Massachusetts between 10 p.m. and midnight on Dec. 31. The storm will then spread eastward to hit the coastline between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. on New Year's Day.
Snowfall rates could reach up to one inch per hour at times and with temperatures dropping into the 20s and low 30s statewide, snow may accumulate on roadways quickly. This has the potential to create hazardous travel conditions for New Year's Eve celebrations, forecasters said.
Between two and four inches could fall statewide by sunrise, forecasters said. Though the snow is expected to taper off in the morning, more snow squalls could be on deck throughout the daytime on New Year's Day.
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