New England Winter Storm Alert – CODE ORANGE

Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut are bracing for another bout of heavy snowfall and coastal flooding, as winter maintains its grip on Southern New England. The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Warnings for several parts of these states, which are expected to receive up to 12 inches of snow on Tuesday.

The storm is expected to bring widespread, plowable snowfall, with the heaviest bands potentially dropping 1-3 inches per hour. Intense snowfall rates combined with gusty winds may even lead to blizzard conditions in some areas.

Coastal regions are expected to experience the strongest winds, with gusts reaching up to 45-60 mph. Inland areas will have slightly less wind, with gusts ranging from 20-30 mph. While widespread power outages aren’t anticipated, there may be scattered power loss due to the combination of wet snow and strong winds.

Rapid temperature drops could cause flash freezing in coastal areas, making untreated roads hazardous throughout Tuesday afternoon and evening. There’s also a risk of coastal flooding, impacting flood-prone roadways through Wednesday. Winter weather is likely to persist throughout the week, with below-average temperatures and wind chills dipping into the single digits and teens.

Fuel Market Impact

Severe weather could delay fuel deliveries in parts of the state since fuel trucks cannot safely operate when wind speeds exceed 35-45 mph. Flooding, snow, and debris could also make deliveries difficult for certain locations. Expect the storm to cause extended delivery times, stretching carrier capacity. Wind and ice could also bring damage to local fuel terminals – though no damage is currently expected.

Mansfield is operating at Code Orange in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New Hampshire, requesting at least 48-hour notice of new deliveries in the affected areas. Mansfield will continue to monitor market conditions and keep customers alerted as the situation progresses.