Southern New England is on high alert as the region prepares for its first widespread snowstorm of the season. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for various areas in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, signaling the potential for significant snowfall and challenging conditions.

The upcoming snowstorm, expected to begin this evening and persist through Sunday afternoon, carries significant implications, particularly along the coastline. Forecasters are closely monitoring the relatively mild ocean waters and the development of a gusty easterly wind, as these factors will play a crucial role in determining snow accumulation. The direction of the wind will influence overall temperatures and thus impact snow totals across the area, from coastal to inland communities.

Presently, it appears that the east wind will prevail, resulting in lower snow amounts along the coastal plain. However, meteorologists remain vigilant for any subtle changes that may occur once the storm fully intensifies overnight and into Sunday.

Anticipate increasing cloud cover throughout this afternoon, accompanied by a few coastal flurries and snow showers. Temperatures are expected to reach the mid to upper 30s in the southern region and the upper 20s in the north.

Snowfall will commence from west to east this evening, intensifying overnight with some communities experiencing snow rates of 1-2" per hour after midnight. However, areas along the immediate coastline, the south shore of Boston, and the Cape may also see rain mixing in, causing the precipitation to flip to all rain.

Simultaneously, the wind will intensify as low pressure develops just south of the New England coast. An east/northeast wind will begin to gust up to 40 mph overnight, reaching up to 50 mph by daybreak over the Cape and Islands. Overnight temperatures are projected to drop into the upper 20s to low 30s inland, while the coast will experience temperatures in the mid 30s. Northern New England will see temperatures in the 20s.

As the morning progresses, precipitation is expected to taper off slightly, resulting in mainly snowfall inland and a mixture of rain and snow along the coast. Inland areas will start below freezing, while coastal regions will be above freezing.

The storm system is anticipated to retreat from the region, allowing cold air to surge in with a gusty north wind. This will lead to a flash freeze on untreated surfaces, and another round of precipitation coinciding with the return of cold air. Coastal areas will see increased snow accumulation during this time.

Temperatures on Sunday will start around 30 inland, in the 20s in the north, and in the mid 30s along the coast. By the afternoon, temperatures will fall into the 20s due to the persistent gusty north wind. Snowfall is expected to diminish early Sunday night as the low-pressure system moves east.

The start of the work week will bring frigid conditions, with Monday morning temperatures in the teens and a gradual climb into the 30s in the afternoon, accompanied by some sunshine.

Weather experts are closely monitoring the pattern of active weather, as another system is forecasted to impact the region by the middle of next week. This system is expected to bring heavy rain and gusty winds, potentially causing significant disruptions. Additionally, there is the possibility of another storm by the weekend, which appears to be colder in nature. Further details on these systems will be provided as the days progress.

As New England braces for the impactful snowstorm, residents are advised to stay updated on the latest weather advisories, exercise caution while traveling, and prepare for potentially challenging conditions in the coming days.