Video Update: High Winds and Coastal Flooding Expected on Cape Cod from Latest Winter Storm

HYANNIS – Wind winds and coastal flooding are expected on Cape Cod Monday as the region is hit with another winter storm.

A blizzard watch and winter weather advisory were both cancelled by the National Weather Service over the weekend for the Cape and Islands.

But strong winds are still expected to cause problems, prompting a high wind warning and coastal flood warning through early this evening.

Winds will blow out of the northwest at 25 to 35 miles an hour with gusts up to 55 miles an hour. Snow accumulations are only expected to be around one inch.

During the early afternoon high tide on Monday, there is the possibility of coastal flooding. Areas from Sandwich to Eastham and along the backside of Cape Cod from Truro to Chatham could see moderate beach erosion.

Drivers on Cape Cod should beware of icy conditions on the roads Monday morning. Falling temperatures coupled with yesterday’s rain could result in a slippery morning commute.

The State Department of Transportation has over 3,000 pieces of equipment treating roads across Massachusetts today.

With strong winds expected, Hyline and the Steamship Authority will be operating on a boat-by-boat basis to and from the islands today.

 

Eversource said today’s strong winds and leftover heavy snow from last week’s storm could result in additional power outages for the Cape.

Officials believe the conditions could result in tree related damage. As a result, the company has called in extra crews for the region

 

“Our crews and support staff did a remarkable job in very difficult conditions to safely and quickly restore power to customers impacted by last week’s storm,” said Craig Hallstrom, President of Massachusetts Electric Operations at Eversource.

“We’re calling on them once again to be prepared to help any customers affected by this latest round of severe winter weather.”

Eversource customers should report power outages using the online form on the company’s website, or by calling 1-800-592-2000 in Eastern Mass.

With parts of the state significant snowfall with the storm, Gov. Charlie Baker has announced a two-hour delay for all non-emergency executive branch state employees today.

Baker said the 11 a.m. start time will allow crews additional time to treat the roads. Bake also reminded drivers to not “crowd the plow.”

 “As the storm continues, we ask everyone to use extreme caution when traveling and avoid unnecessary driving when possible, allowing crews to safely treat and clear roadways.  We will continue to monitor the forecast and keep the public informed as the storm progresses. We remind everyone to please assist neighbors in need, and to help keep sidewalks and fire hydrants clear,” Baker said.

The Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee has activated the Multi-Agency Coordination Center and will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day. There will be no activation of the regional shelter system at this time.

 

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has issued the following tips for drivers during winter storms:

• Dial 511 and select a route to hear real-time conditions on I-90 and other roads.
• Visit www.mass511.com, a website which provides real-time traffic and incident advisory information, and allows users to subscribe to text and email alerts for traffic conditions.
• Follow MassDOT on Twitter @MassDOT to receive regular updates on road and traffic conditions and MassDOT’s efforts to treat major highways throughout the Commonwealth.
• Download MassDOT’s GoTime mobile app and view real-time traffic conditions before setting out on the road.

Other important winter driving tips include:

• Ensure you have a full tank of gas, flash light, blanket, jump cables, and other supplies in your car before heading out onto the roadways in winter conditions.
• 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 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.
• Most importantly please remember to slow down. Also, seat belts should be worn at all times – it’s the law.

More information on safe winter driving can be found at: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/departments/snowice/safewinterdrivingtips.aspx

By MATT PITTA and MATT MCCARTHY, CapeCod.com News Director