Boston is currently looking like a white desert. A massive storm over the weekend has left almost 20 inches of snow in some parts of the region. While the worst of the snowfall has passed, the city is now facing a new enemy: Extreme Cold. This “monster storm” hasn’t just hit Boston; it has affected nearly 200 million people across the United States.
The Big Freeze: Temperatures to Drop Significantly
Even though the heavy clouds are moving away, the danger is far from over. A Winter Storm Warning remains in place until 8 p.m. Monday. After that, the “Bitter Cold” will take over. Instead of the usual winter temperatures, the city will face highs only in the teens and 20s.
At night, the temperature will drop to single digits. This is much colder than the normal 35°F (around 1.6°C) that Boston usually sees in late January. Because it will stay so cold all week, the snow on the ground will not melt. Instead, it will turn into hard, dangerous ice that is very difficult to clear.
Snow Record: Sterling and Boston Hit Hard
The amount of snow varies by location, but everywhere is struggling.
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Sterling: This area saw the highest amount with a massive 22.2 inches.
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Logan Airport: The airport recorded 18.6 inches, making it impossible for most planes to move.
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Boston City: The official count for the city stands at 16.7 inches so far, with a little more expected today.
Travel Troubles: Airport and Bus Delays
If you have a flight today, the news is not good. Logan International Airport is mostly quiet because very few airlines are flying. Most companies are waiting for the “clean-up” to finish before they start their engines again. They hope to resume a normal schedule by Tuesday.
For those using public transport, the MBTA (buses) are facing “significant delays.” Many roads are so blocked that buses cannot even enter the stations or reach the regular stops. If you are standing outside waiting for a bus, make sure you are wearing multiple layers of clothes to avoid frostbite.
City Rules: Parking Bans and Closures
To help the cleaning crews, the City of Boston has started a Snow Emergency Parking Ban. This means you cannot park your car on any major road or main street. If you do, the “tow trucks” will take your car away immediately so the snowplows can pass.
Additionally, all Boston Public Schools and city government buildings are closed this Monday. This is to keep parents, children, and workers off the slippery roads while the “Snow Warriors” try to clear the paths.
Our Opinion: Why the ‘Ice Age’ Week is Dangerous
In our view, the “Bitter Cold” mentioned by the weather experts is actually more dangerous than the snow itself. When it is this cold, car batteries die, and water pipes inside houses can freeze and burst, causing a lot of damage.
We suggest that residents don’t just clear the snow from their sidewalks, but also check their heating systems. Also, there is another storm “on the horizon” for next weekend. So, don’t throw away your shovels just yet—this winter battle is going to last for several more days.
Conclusion
Boston is currently in a “Deep Freeze.” While the city is used to winter, the combination of 20 inches of snow and single-digit temperatures is a serious challenge. With schools closed and the airport struggling, the best thing to do is stay indoors. As the Mayor suggested, let the cleaning crews do their work so that the city can try to wake up again on Tuesday.
FAQs
When will Logan Airport go back to normal?
The airport officials expect to be back on a regular schedule by Tuesday, January 27, once the runways are fully cleared of ice.
Can I park my car on the street today?
Only on side streets where there is no ban. If you park on a “main artery” or major road, your car will be towed because of the emergency parking ban.
Will the snow melt this week?
Probably not. Because temperatures will stay in the teens and 20s, the snow will stay frozen. You will need to manually clear your driveway as nature won’t help you melt it this week.
Are schools open tomorrow?
The city has not decided yet. It depends on how much of the snow is cleared by Monday night. You should check the Boston Public Schools website for updates.
Is another storm coming soon?
Yes, weather models show a potential for another winter blast this coming weekend, though it is too early to say how much snow it will bring