Winter Storm Stella 2017 New York and Boston Regions News Update: 50 mph Gusts, 12-15 Inches of Snow Until Tuesday
The National Weather Service has been keeping a close watch on Winter Storm Stella as it is set to dump 12 to 18 inches of ice on the Northeast region of the United States, particularly in the New York City and Boston areas.
According to recent reports, Stella threatens to bring gusts of up to 50 mph as well as winds of up to 20 to 30 mph that may turn into a blizzard. Officials fear that the winter storm may undergo "bombogenesis" or a weather bomb, which happens when the pressure at the center of a low-pressure system drops a minimum of 24 millibars within 24 hours.
A blizzard watch has been announced in New York City, Boston and other surrounding areas starting late Monday night. Residents are warned that a mixture of rain and ice will fall until Tuesday.
In the New York area, temperature will reportedly reach a high of 32 degrees and a low of 25 degrees on Tuesday.
Although Stella packs a punch, its effects is said to be way less severe than last year's blizzard. The January 2016 storm holds the all-time record in the city when it brought about 27.5 inches of snow. Stella, on the other hand, is expected to bring in about 12 to 18 inches.
Even if the blizzard is expected to wane on Tuesday, residents may still expect snow flurries on Wednesday. Gov. Andrew Cuomo has announced that the New York State Emergency Operations Center is already on standby for anyone who needs help.
Meanwhile, Bostonians have been warned of potential whiteout conditions due to Stella. The National Weather Service has announced that the blizzard watch will not be lifted until Tuesday, as more snow is expected to fall in the city. Winds of more than 35 mph are expected.
Residents must be prepared for power outages. Because of the severe conditions, they have been advised to stay inside their homes and postpone travel. Flights have already been diverted and rescheduled in Logan airport since Sunday afternoon. According to city officials, buses will still run even if the governor declares a snow emergency.