Current Risk Alert

March 13, 2023

The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Watch in effect from this evening through Wednesday morning for northern Connecticut, eastern Massachusetts, southeastern Massachusetts, western Massachusetts, and northern Rhode Island. Heavy snow is possible, with total accumulations of 4 to 8 inches expected. Winds could gust as high as 60 mph.

In addition, a Coastal Flood Watch is in effect from late Tuesday night through Wednesday morning for the eastern Massachusetts coast from the Merrimack River to Cape Cod. Up to one foot of inundation above ground level is possibly in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. Flooding of up to one foot deep is possible and may affect more vulnerable shore roads, including Morrissey Boulevard in Boston.

Large waves may produce pockets of moderate flooding along the ocean shoreline in places such as Gloucester, Revere, Hull, and Scituate. Flooding could be 1 to 2 feet deep in some locations and debris could wash onto coastal roadways.

At this time, we urge you to make the following preliminary preparations:

  • Efforts to protect property should now be underway. Prepare for wind damage. Act now to complete preparations before the wind becomes hazardous. Secure outdoor objectsthat could blow away or cause damage to people/property.
  • Closely monitor NOAA weather radio or other local news outletsfor official storm information and changes to the forecast.
  • Some trees in our area may be more susceptible to wind damage. Immediately inspect trees and bushes. Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
  • Be prepared for potential power outagesas a result of 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.
  • Check to see if sump pumps are working, and advise custodians to check all drains, grates and basins to ensure they are free of leaves and debris.

Snow on Roofs – Precautions to Take
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 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, report the claim immediately at 617-746-5743 or via the online form at: https://rcabrisk.org/property-claim-report/. For a list of service vendors, go to: https://rcabrisk.org/vendors/.