Quote from Michael McStay on February 21, 2026, 7:33 pm

latest official information from the National Weather Service (NWS) and local weather alerts for Plymouth County, Massachusetts ahead of the major winter storm Sunday night into Monday:

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❗ National Weather Service Alerts (Official)

According to the most recent NWS alert summary:

❄️ Blizzard Warning

• Eastern & Western Plymouth County, MA is under a Blizzard Warning.
• This means the storm meets blizzard criteria: wind gusts ≥35 mph, heavy snow, and visibility < ¼ mile for at least 3 hours during the peak of the storm.
• The warning runs roughly from late Sunday afternoon through early Tuesday morning (details vary by county).

💨 High Wind Warning

• Wind advisories are also in effect, especially off the coast and on nearby islands.

🌨️ Winter Storm Warnings / Watches

• Most of southeastern Massachusetts, including Plymouth County, has a Winter Storm Watch or Warning ahead of the nor’easter — meaning heavy snow and conditions conducive to blizzard criteria are expected.

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📅 Storm Timing (What to Expect)

• Sunday evening (6–9 PM): Snow begins spreading in from the south with increasing wind.
• Overnight Sunday into Monday (Midnight – Morning):

  • Steady to heavy snowfall, potentially 1–2+ inches/hour in spots.
  • Blizzard conditions likely, with blowing snow and low visibility.
  • Strong winds increasingly gusting (40–60+ mph).

• Monday through late afternoon:

  • Snow may continue through midday but taper later.
  • Wind and blowing snow may persist into Monday evening.

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❄️ Expected Impacts

🧊 Snowfall

• 12–18+ inches of snow likely for much of southeastern Massachusetts, including Plymouth County.
• Localized heavier bands could push totals closer to 18–24 inches along the coast and South Shore.

💨 Wind & Visibility

• Gusts up to ~50–60+ mph — especially near the coast — may cause blowing and drifting snow, leading to whiteout conditions.
• Travel is expected to become treacherous or impossible at times during the storm.

🚗 Travel & Safety

• Do not travel during peak storm hours if possible — road conditions will worsen quickly.
• Power outages are possible where heavy snow and wind combine.

🌊 Coastal Issues

• Coastal flooding risk during high tides due to strong onshore winds and waves.

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🧯 Official Safety Preparedness List

Here’s what the National Weather Service and local emergency managers recommend before the blizzard arrives:

🛠️ Before Sunday Night

• Fill emergency supplies:

  • Water, food, medications, flashlights, batteries.
  • Fully charge phones & critical devices.

• Check heating sources:

  • Ensure you have fuel, and safe heating methods ready in case of power outages.

• Prepare your vehicle:

  • Fill up gas tank, carry blankets, shovel, ice scraper, and a winter survival kit.

• Pets & Animals:

  • Bring animals indoors or secure adequate shelter.

• Stay Informed:

  • Sign up for local alerts (e.g., Smart911) and monitor NWS updates.

📛 During the Storm

• Stay home and off the roads.
• Limit exposure to extreme cold and wind.
• Keep extra blankets and warm clothing in case of power loss.

📞 Emergencies

• Call 911 for immediate danger.
• For power issues or outages, contact your utility company.

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