Cities and towns in Massachusetts prepare for winter storm
NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WJAR) — Cities and towns in Massachusetts are preparing for a major winter storm this weekend.
Leaders are already thinking ahead to possible power outages along with any other major impacts.
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and other state leaders spoke about storm preparations on Friday afternoon.
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and other state leaders spoke about storm preparations on Friday afternoon.
State leaders said residents should avoid travel if possible.
Healey also declared a remote work day on Monday for non-essential state employees.
“With a significant winter storm expected to bring over a foot of snow across Massachusetts, transportation crews are preparing to keep roads safe and passable,” said Interim MassDOT Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phil Eng. “We urge everyone to plan ahead and limit travel, if possible. If you must travel, slow down, allow for extra time, keep a safe distance from plows and other vehicles, and be mindful of changing conditions. Public transit riders should check for service updates and official alerts. Our teams will be working throughout the storm and into recovery to support safe travel and we ask the public to do their part so everyone can get where they need to go safely.”
Officials said the State Emergency Operations Center will be activated at the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency headquarters.
There are also several parking bans in place throughout some cities, and drivers are being encouraged not to leave their cars out on the streets during the weekend, or they could be towed.
People are being encouraged to buy all of their supplies from the stores or anything else now, before that possible foot of snow comes our way and you can stay off of the roads.
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Leaders across the entire state are preparing. As soon as that snow touches the ground, emergency vehicles will already be out.
New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell held a briefing about the city’s response to the expected snowstorm. He did not expect the storm to be catastrophic, but he said it would be challenging.
The biggest way residents can help is by observing parking bans.
“The ban is not a suggestion, the ban is mandatory, you need to move your car,” said Mitchell.
He said being able to plow the roads can keep people safe.
He used the example of ambulances being able to get to where they need to go.
NBC 10's Kennedy Buck contributed to this report.
