Current Risk Alert

February 12, 2024

WINTER STORM WARNING AND COASTAL FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning in effect from 1:00 AM Tuesday, February 13, through Wednesday, February 14. Heavy snow is expected, with a total accumulation of 7 to 13 inches and winds gusting as high as 40 mph. Affected areas are: Portions of northern Connecticut, central, eastern, northeastern and western Massachusetts and northern Rhode Island.

Travel could be very difficult to impossible with snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour at times. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions will particularly impact the Tuesday morning commute.

Wet snow and gusty winds may result in power outages.

In addition, a Coastal Flood Warning is in effect from noon to 5pm on Tuesday. Two to three feet of inundation above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways in the following counties: Suffolk, Eastern Norfolk, Eastern Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes, and Nantucket.

Some vulnerable coastal roads become impassable around high tide. Flooding 1 to 2 feet deep affects some coastal roads and low-lying areas from Revere and Winthrop through Boston to Hull, Braintree, and Quincy. Splashover and debris may wash onto coastal roads when large waves occur. 

We urge you to make the following preliminary preparations:

  • If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
  • Prepare for wind damage. Some trees in our area may be more susceptible to high winds. Immediately inspect trees and bushes. Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage. Secure outdoor objectsthat could blow away or cause damage to people/property.
  • Maintenance personnel should check facilities, ESPECIALLY UNOCCUPIED BUILDINGS, in the morning and evening each day. Check for frozen lines by making sure water is flowing in the faucets and toilets. If you believe a line is frozen, shut off the water supply until a plumber arrives.
  • Be prepared for potential power outages from downed power lines caused by storm activity. Have an emergency supply kit on hand, including water, flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit and non-perishable food.
  • If you lose heat and are unable to restore heat, shut off the water supply and drain the pipes. This will prevent water from freezing and bursting the pipes. If you are unable to drain the pipes, open the taps a little to allow water to trickle out. If you choose this option, please monitor the taps on a regular basis.
  • If using a space heater, inspect it for safety – make sure it is functioning properly and that the cords are not frayed. Only use a space heater that automatically shuts off if it tips over. DO NOT USE EXTENSION CORDS WITH PORTABLE HEATERS – PLUG THEM DIRECTLY INTO THE WALL OUTLET.

SPACE HEATER SAFETY

During cold periods, it is tempting to use portable space heaters for extra warmth. PLEASE USE CAUTION. If using a space heater, inspect it for safety – make sure it is functioning properly and that the cords are not frayed. Only use a space heater that automatically shuts off if it tips over. DO NOT USE EXTENSION CORDS WITH PORTABLE HEATERS – PLUG THEM DIRECTLY INTO THE WALL OUTLET. Keep the heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as paper, clothing, or furniture.

Reporting a Claim

If you experience property damage or injury as a result of the storm, report the claim immediately. Contact Alicia Gray at 781-664-3990, Alicia_gray@rcab.org. Again, for a full list of service vendors, go to: https://rcabrisk.org/vendors.