January 27, 2022 By Meteorologist Michael Page
A powerful coastal storm still has its eyes set on the South Shore, with significant snow and strong winds heading in for Saturday.
Friday
On Friday the storm will still be gathering strength to our south. Ahead of its arrival, you may see some flurries or light snow showers from time to time, but this is not the main storm.
That won't get here until Friday night. Light snow will break out while we sleep, before ramping up on Saturday.
Saturday
Expect steady snow to fall across the South Shore from roughly 8 AM to 8 PM. This is an all day, good old fashioned snow storm.
If you do have to venture out, the heaviest snow is likely to fall from roughly 11 AM-5 PM. That's also when the winds will be strongest.
The snow will finally wind down Saturday night, and the sun will emerge on Sunday as colder air flows in behind the storm.
Snowfall
Expect a widespread 1 to 2 feet of snow across the South Shore. In certain heavy snow bands, it's not impossible that some areas see even a bit more than that.
In some communities this may be a top 10 snowstorm.
Winds
Peak wind gusts will be found right along the coast, and will likely range from 45-65 MPH.
While isolated power outages are possible, we're unlikely to see the amount of tree and power line damage that we did back in October.
That storm was particularly damaging because there were so many leaves on the trees; winds to this level actually are not too unusual for the winter months in New England.
Coastal Issues
High tide on Saturday morning will likely bring coastal flooding, thanks in part to the strong northeast winds whipping off of the ocean.
Thank you, Michael, for this detailed and very understandable report!