IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

When and Where the Worst of the Historic Northeast Blizzard Will Hit

Some places could see 3 feet of snow.
Get more newsLiveon

The forecast could change, but it looks like the worst of the historic Northeast blizzard — including snow totals of 3 feet or more — will be around Boston, around Providence, Rhode Island, and along the eastern half of Long Island.

Here’s an expected timeline for the storm from NBC News meteorologist Bill Karins:

Monday: Light snow from the mid-Atlantic region to southern New England, 2 to 4 inches.

Monday night: The storm reaches warm ocean and begins the weather phenomenon known as bombogenesis — a rapid drop in air pressure. A heavy snow band develops over southern New England and Long Island. The blizzard begins.

Tuesday morning: The blizzard continues. The storm peaks with snow rates of 3 inches per hour and wind gusts of 50 to 70 mph. Power outages become widespread, and cars get stuck on highways. Storm surge of 2 to 4 inches could cause damage in coastal Massachusetts.

Tuesday evening: The blizzard is still going strong. The storm starts to slowly head for Nova Scotia. Snow ends in Philadelphia and New York.

Wednesday morning: Strong winds continue, but the snow is over for most of New England. Cleanup begins, but high winds, drifting snow and single-digit wind chills make it a dangerous day for anyone who has lost power.

IN-DEPTH