Editor's note: This article was written by Ricky Firey, a Seacoast-based official SKYWARN weather spotter through the National Weather Service.


A major winter storm is poised to impact the Seacoast with heavy snow and coastal flooding Monday afternoon through Tuesday evening.

Right now, the general thinking is the storm should start Monday between 12-3 p.m. The snow is expected to quickly ramp up from there. Travel could swiftly become difficult as snowfall rates of 1-3 inches per hour and strong winds create blizzard-like conditions. Coastal flooding will also become an issue during the times of high tide.

Snow accumulations right at our coastal roads look to be 8-11 inches. The storm will push enough warm air right at our shore roads to allow for less snow but a heavier and denser consistency. It may actually mix with or change to rain for a time during the storm. This combined with wind gusts of 50-60 mph could cause scattered power outages.

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Just a few miles inland, 11-14 inches of snow, possibly more, could fall. Wind gusts of 35-45 mph can be expected with white-out conditions expected.

Coastal flooding in the typical areas can be expected. Residents and businesses in these areas might be advised to prepare for minor to moderate inundation to occur.

Finally, try to stay off the roads during this storm. If you must venture out, please make sure you have your emergency kits ready. Make sure that kit has a blanket, a shovel of some sort, some non perishable foods and a few gallons of water. Also be sure to gas that car up, and charge your phone.

Stay safe, everyone!

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