The first snowfall of the season has arrived in Massachusetts and it's likely to make for a rough morning commute with snowy, slushy and icy roads. So take it easy out there.
Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for most of the state as snow and mixed precipitation continues.
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After some impressive snow totals, the changeover to freezing rain is causing icy roads and multiple crashes. Please check the forecast before you head to work or school. Boston 25 StormTracker Meteorologists say you should expect steady precipitation to wrap up around 10 a.m. with lingering sprinkles and flurries to diminish by 1 p.m.
Plan on slow and slippery travel conditions.
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Reminder: Always clear ALL snow from your vehicle before driving.
[ HOUR-BY-HOUR RADAR: What time does snow move into your town? ]
A flip to rain will happen in Boston overnight between 1-2 a.m., creating slush that will eventually wash away Friday. Visibility will be low and local roadways could freeze overnight.
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Kevin Lemanowicz | Shiri Spear | Vicki Graf | Jason Brewer
Latest updates –
8:30 a.m.: The Mass. Pike is being diverted in Palmer due to several truck crashes.
Traffic is being diverted onto Route 32 through Sturbridge.
7:22 a.m.: Here's a look at your morning commute:
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6:49 a.m.: MassDOT says as of 6 a.m., it had 1,357 crews out clearing and treating state roadways which are a mix of conditions, from snow to slush. They're reminding driver's: Don't crowd the plow, and give yourself some extra time. As always, use yah blinkah!
5:56 a.m.: Worcester saw nearly 8 inches of snow overnight. Some saw even more, with Lexington getting nearly 9 inches!
5:40 a.m.: School closings and delays have spiked. Check to see if your community has canceled or delayed for today. Some businesses are also announcing closings. Check for the latest closing alerts.
4:00 a.m.: Road conditions across the state are making travel difficult this morning. While some highways are down to bare pavement, many are a mix of slush and snow, with periods of sleet and rain added to the mix.
9:23 p.m.: Rhode Island State Police reported that there were 35 weather-related crashes between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., but no one suffered serious injuries.
8:38 p.m.: The speed limit was set at 40 mph on I-90 between the New York border and Interchange 11 because of the snow, with special permit trucks restricted.
7:17 p.m.: Boston 25 News reporter John Monahan visually confirms snowfall in Worcester!
4:05 p.m.: Worcester Public Schools have announced a 2-hour delay for Friday, Nov. 16. All Head Start and AM Preschool programs are canceled.
4 p.m.: City of Worcester declares parking ban in effect as of 6 p.m. Thursday.
11:40 a.m.: Winter Storm Warning issued for parts of Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, and Worcester counties.
INFO: Live Traffic Conditions | MassDOT | MBTA | Logan Airport | Amtrak
Important winter driving tips from MassDOT:
- Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights, even the hood and roof, before driving, (start with the tailpipe).
- Leave plenty of room for stopping.
- Remember that the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
- Use brakes carefully. Brake early. Brake correctly. It takes more time and distance to stop in adverse conditions.
- Bridge decks freeze first. Due to the difference in the exposure to air, the surface condition can be worse on a bridge than on the approach road.
- Exit ramps are an even greater challenge during the winter since they may have received less anti-icing material than the main line.
- Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows – stay back at least 200 feet and don't pass on the right.
- Seat belts should be worn at all times – it's the law.
- Most importantly please remember to slow down.
ADDITIONAL SNOW CONTENT:
How and when to protect your pipes from freezing
How to shovel, remove snow safely
Here's what to have in your snow emergency kit
Tips, warning signs for frostbite, hypothermia