A powerful nor'easter is expected to hit Massachusetts on Monday night, bringing with it heavy snowfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding, according to the National Weather Service. The storm, which is predicted to last through Tuesday, could dump up to a foot of snow in most areas of the state, with the highest elevations in the southern Berkshires potentially receiving up to 18 inches.

The winter storm watch issued by the weather service covers the entire state from 1 a.m. Tuesday to 1 a.m. Wednesday, except for Berkshire County where the watch is in effect until 7 p.m. Tuesday. Commuters should prepare for treacherous conditions during both the morning and evening commutes on Tuesday, with the morning commute expected to be more impacted.

The nor'easter is expected to make its initial landfall in southwestern Massachusetts as early as 11 p.m. Monday, then travel northward, reaching Greater Boston between 2 and 3 a.m. Tuesday. The storm is predicted to gradually lessen around 3 p.m. Tuesday, with activity tapering off completely by approximately 8 p.m. The storm's intensity is attributed to its movement southeast of Massachusetts, which will result in periods of strong northeast winds drawing in moisture from the ocean.

With snow totals ranging from 8 inches to a foot for most of the state, southeastern Massachusetts may see slightly lower amounts of 6 to 8 inches, while the South Coast could receive 4 to 6 inches. Communities around Route 44 in Bristol and Plymouth counties may expect around 6 to 8 inches of snow, while parts of the Cape may only see 3 to 4 inches. Martha's Vineyard could receive 2 to 3 inches, and Nantucket is expected to receive only 1 inch. The highest elevations in the southern Berkshires are forecasted to receive the most snow, with amounts ranging from a foot to 18 inches.

Apart from heavy snowfall, high winds are expected to impact southeastern Massachusetts. The weather service has issued a high wind watch for the Cape and Islands from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph. Nantucket is expected to experience even stronger winds, with gusts up to 65 mph, while the Cape and Martha's Vineyard may see gusts between 50 and 60 mph. The South Coast and lower half of the South Shore could experience gusts between 45 and 50 mph, which may lead to power outages and travel difficulties, particularly for taller vehicles.

Coastal flooding is also a concern with this nor'easter. A coastal flood watch has been issued for the entire east coast of Massachusetts and the Cape from 12 to 5 p.m. Tuesday. The weather service warns of 1-2 feet of inundation above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. Vulnerable coastal roads may become impassable during high tide, and splash-over and debris may wash onto them during periods of large waves. Drivers are urged not to navigate around barricades or through water of unknown depth, and homeowners and business owners are advised to take precautions to protect flood-prone property.

Before the storm's arrival, Massachusetts can expect a warm and partly cloudy Sunday, with highs in the mid- to high-40s, followed by a clear and similarly warm day on Monday. As the nor'easter moves in on Monday night, temperatures are predicted to drop to the upper-20s and low-30s, with Tuesday's highs in the lower-30s. Wednesday and Thursday are expected to be clear with daytime temperatures in the low-30s, while the chances of some snow return on Friday, although this precipitation is expected to be relatively minor compared to the earlier storm.

Residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions, heed any evacuation orders or warnings, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this nor'easter.