Will This Storm Bring 3 Inches… or a Blizzard? How North of Boston Residents Can Prepare for a Nor’easter
Winter in Massachusetts has a way of keeping us on our toes.
One day, we’re told to expect “just a couple inches.”
The next? We wake up to twice that — and suddenly the forecast is calling for 6 to 12 inches… maybe more… with wind and possible blizzard conditions.
That’s exactly what happened this weekend.
What started as a small snowfall turned into several inches overnight. Now, communities across North of Boston are watching projections climb anywhere from 3 to 18 inches from Sunday into Monday.
So instead of waiting and hoping for the best, it’s time to do what New Englanders do best: prepare early, stay calm, and ride it out safely.
Here’s how you and your family can get ready — whether we end up with a light snow… or a full Nor’easter.
🎥 Watch my storm preparations below.
Table of Contents
Why This Storm Deserves Your Attention
Weather models have already shifted once — from 1–2 inches… to 3–4… to now possibly much more.
With:
- Heavy snowfall
- Strong coastal winds
- Possible power outages
- Hazardous travel conditions
This storm has the potential to disrupt daily life for a day or two — especially in towns like Woburn, Winchester, Reading, Burlington, Wakefield, and surrounding communities.
A little preparation now can save a lot of stress later.
Signs You May Need Extra Mental Health Support
Molly and Jackie shared several common signs they see in women who reach out for help.
You may benefit from additional support if you:
- Feel “stuck” or disconnected from yourself
- No longer feel like the person you used to be
- Feel constantly overwhelmed or exhausted
- Wake up anxious or depressed
- Struggle to get through daily routines
- Feel emotionally reactive or irritable
- Feel like you’re just “going through the motions”
Many women say, “This came out of nowhere.”
In reality, stress often builds slowly over time.
Recognizing these signs early can make a huge difference.
Step 1: Get Your Car Ready Before the Snow Starts
One of the first things I did was clear off the car early — before heading out for supplies.
Your Winter Car Checklist
✔️ Fully clear snow and ice from:
- Roof
- Windshield
- Windows
- Headlights
- License plates
✔️ Fill up your gas tank
✔️ Check windshield washer fluid
✔️ Keep an ice scraper and shovel in your car
✔️ Drive slow and steady on untreated roads
When snow piles up, you may need to let your car warm up and run longer just to clear it safely. Having enough gas makes that easier.
Step 2: Shop Early for Food & Household Supplies
If there’s one thing New Englanders know… it’s that grocery stores fill up fast before a storm.
That’s why I always try to go early — before the rush.
Smart Storm Grocery List
Plan for at least 2–3 days at home:
Pantry & Meals
- Bread, wraps, rolls
- Pasta, rice, soup
- Canned beans & veggies
- Peanut butter & jelly
- Cereal & oatmeal
- Easy freezer meals
Fresh & Comfort Foods
- Eggs & milk
- Coffee & tea
- Snacks
- Baking ingredients
- Comfort foods (because… snow days)
Water & Essentials
- Bottled water
- Paper towels
- Toilet paper
- Pet food & supplies
- Baby supplies (if needed)
Pro tip: Think in terms of “What if I can’t leave for 48 hours?”
Step 3: Prepare Your Home for Heavy Snow & Wind
Snow isn’t just inconvenient — it can damage homes if you’re not ready.
Exterior Prep
✔️ Bring in or secure outdoor furniture
✔️ Put away trash barrels
✔️ Clear storm drains if possible
✔️ Park away from trees when you can
Interior Prep
✔️ Check your heating system
✔️ Set thermostat to steady temps
✔️ Close drafty windows
✔️ Stock extra blankets
If you have a fireplace or wood stove, make sure it’s ready — just in case.
Step 4: Energy & Power Outage Preparation
With heavy snow and wind, power outages are always a possibility.
Being prepared makes a big difference.
Power Outage Kit
Keep this in one easy-to-find place:
🔋 Flashlights (not just phone lights)
🔋 Extra batteries
🔋 Portable phone chargers
🔋 Candles & matches (used safely)
🔋 Battery-powered radio
Generator Safety (If You Have One)
- Never use indoors or in garages
- Keep at least 20 feet from the home
- Test it before the storm
If you rely on medical devices, contact your utility provider ahead of time to ask about priority restoration.
Step 5: Plan for Family, Pets & Daily Routines
Storms are easier when everyone knows the plan.
Family Planning
✔️ Discuss work/school expectations
✔️ Arrange remote options if possible
✔️ Check in on elderly neighbors
✔️ Refill prescriptions early
Pet Prep
🐾 Extra food
🐾 Medications
🐾 Warm bedding
🐾 Safe bathroom options if walks are limited
Remember: sidewalks and roads may not be safe right away.
Step 6: Stay Informed as the Storm Approaches
Forecasts can change quickly — as we’ve already seen.
Stay updated through:
- Local weather stations
- Town social media pages
- Emergency alerts
- Utility company updates
Avoid relying on just one source.
When the Storm Hits: Smart Safety Tips
Once the snow starts falling:
❄️ Stay off roads if possible
❄️ Avoid unnecessary travel
❄️ Shovel in stages to avoid injury
❄️ Check vents for snow buildup
❄️ Never run cars in closed spaces
Your safety always comes first.
Turning a Storm Into a Cozy Winter Weekend
After prepping, there’s something nice about settling in.
For us?
Crescent rolls, afternoon coffee, and enjoying the quiet.
Storms don’t have to be stressful when you’re prepared.
They can be:
- Movie nights
- Family time
- A chance to slow down
- A reminder why New England winters are unforgettable
Final Thoughts: Prepare Now, Relax Later
Whether this storm brings 3 inches… or something closer to a blizzard, being ready gives you peace of mind.
✔️ Car ready
✔️ Food stocked
✔️ Home secured
✔️ Power plan in place
✔️ Family prepared
That’s how North of Boston residents weather winter — together.
Stay safe, stay warm, and keep a look out for local updates as the forecast evolves.
If you ever need help navigating winter homeownership, neighborhood resources, or community updates, I’m always here. Learn about how I support North of Boston residents here.
— Jodi
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