Current Risk Alert

February 21, 2026

IF YOUR PROPERTY SUFFERED DAMAGE RELATED TO THIS STORM, CALL ONE OF OUR RECOMMENDED VENDORS FOR REPAIRS AND REMEDIATION: https://rcabrisk.org/vendors/.

A major nor’easter could bring blizzard conditions to Massachusetts starting Sunday afternoon (February 22) through Tuesday morning (February 24). Over a foot of snow is possible. Winds could gust as high as 50 MPH. The heavy snow combined with powerful winds could create whiteout conditions in many areas. Coastal flooding is also expected.

Precautions to Take Now

  • 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 outagesfrom 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.

Roofs

If not cleared off, snow accumulations will add weight and stress to structures and contribute to leaky roofs once the snow begins to thaw. In many cases, roof ice dams can form, causing water build-up leading to interior damage. To minimize the risk of over-stressing a building roof due to accumulated or drifting snow, please take into consideration the following tips:

  • If roof snow can be removed from the ground with the use of a snow rake (available at most hardware stores), do so. Use caution, as metal snow rakes conduct electricity if they come into contact with a power line.
  • Try to avoid working from ladders, as ladder rungs tend to ice up. Snow and ice collect on boot soles and metal ladders.
  • Remove snow in layers uniformly across the roof to prevent unbalanced loads that might cause collapse. Avoid making snow piles on the roof during the removal process.
  • Large icicles can form on roof overhangs, but do not necessarily mean ice damming is occurring. Icicles overhanging doorways and walkways can be dangerous and should be carefully removed.
  • Use care with snow removal equipment (shovels, ice spaces, snow blowers) to prevent roof cover damage. It is not necessary to clean completely down to the roof surface as long as melting snow and water can freely flow to the drains.
  • Because snow is heavy and roofs and other surfaces may be slippery, all of the above-mentioned actions should only be performed by able-bodied adults. Protective headgear and eye protection is recommended.

Property Damage

If you experience property damage or injury, report the claim immediately by going to https://rcabrisk.org/property-claim-report/. If you need to contact a disaster restoration company, please go here: https://rcabrisk.org/vendors/