Full Breakdown
Massachusetts Faces Significant Snowfall from Coastal Storm
1/20/2026, 7:13:31 AM
Overview of the Storm's Impact
A coastal storm brought substantial snowfall to Massachusetts from Sunday into Monday, with varying totals across the region. Early reports indicated that western Massachusetts received 2-4 inches of snow by Saturday morning, with an additional 1-2 inches expected in western Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts later that day. As the storm progressed, snowfall intensified, particularly in southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island, where isolated bands could see accumulations of 6 inches or more.
Snowfall Totals and Travel Disruptions
By Monday morning, the National Weather Service reported significant snowfall across various cities in Massachusetts. Notable totals included Attleboro with 7.1 inches, Milton at 6.6 inches, and Boston receiving 5.3 inches, marking the highest single-storm total for the season. The storm caused travel disruptions, with 30 flights canceled at Boston Logan International Airport on Sunday and an additional 15 cancellations reported by Monday morning. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation implemented a temporary 40 mph speed limit on parts of the Massachusetts Turnpike due to hazardous conditions, although this was lifted by late morning.
Weather Conditions and Forecast
The storm brought light snow and rain to Boston on Sunday morning, with temperatures remaining above freezing until later in the day. As the storm moved closer to the coast, forecasts indicated that snowfall rates could reach 0.5 to 1 inch per hour in certain areas, particularly after the New England Patriots game. Winds were expected to increase to gusts of 20-30 mph by evening, shifting from the northeast to northwest.
Looking ahead, the weather is expected to calm on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with sunny conditions and temperatures in the 30s. However, forecasters are monitoring potential storm systems that could bring additional snow later in the week.
Criticism & Opposition
While the storm's impact has been significant, some travelers expressed frustration over flight cancellations and delays, particularly those relying on Cape Air services. The Massachusetts Port Authority noted that deicing operations contributed to some delays, but overall transit systems, including the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, reported no major issues.
Official Statements & Responses
Benjamin Crawley, a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Port Authority, stated, “There are some delays today due to deicing operations, but things should clear up as the day goes on.” The Massachusetts Department of Transportation confirmed that over 1,600 pieces of equipment were deployed to plow and treat roads across the state.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There are some delays today due to deicing operations, but things should clear up as the day goes on,” — Benjamin Crawley, Massachusetts Port Authority
- “The storm guidance has changed in the last 24 hours.” — NBC10 Boston Weather Team
As Massachusetts continues to recover from this winter storm, residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and travel advisories.
