BOSTON — A snow emergency has been declared in Boston as a major winter storm moves into the area bringing with it plenty of snow, winds up to 60 mph and coastal flooding.
Boston Mayor Marty Walsh held a news conference ahead of the storm and urged residents to keep an eye on the forecast.
FOX25's team of meteorologists say Boston could see a foot or more of snow before the storm moves out of the area late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.
"We are encouraging residents to stay off the roads during the storm, to assist older residents and those with disabilities, and to keep up with the shoveling of their property throughout the storm,” Walsh said.
With the snow emergency comes a parking ban, so residents will be forced off the main roads at 7 a.m. and into other lots and garages for the duration of the storm.
Boston Public Schools and Boston Public Libraries will be closed Tuesday. Boston Centers for Youth & Families stand-alone community centers will be open, with school-based sites closed.
"The City offers a number of resources geared towards keeping residents safe and aware of current conditions. I ask each and every single Boston resident to remain vigilant, stay safe and look after their neighbors,” Walsh said.
Tuesday marks the fourth snow day for Boston students.
“In 2015, most of our storms happened on the weekend, so it was easier for us to manage the storm. We had Friday, Saturday, Sunday to clean up after the storm. This happens at rush hour. So it's a difficult storm,” Walsh said.
Boston Public Works began pre-treating city streets before sunrise and expect to have more than 700 pieces of equipment treating and plowing roads during the height of the storm.
Property owners are being reminded that they must clear snow, sleet and ice from sidewalks and curb ramps abutting property within three hours after the snow ends or three hours after sunrise if the snow ends overnight. Those who do not comply with that rule face fines.
Residents are also reminded that when clearing snow from sidewalks, curbs and vehicles that tossing it into the street is prohibited and can also result in fines.
Gov. Charlie Baker urged people to take public transportation, and not drive. The MBTA will run on a regular schedule. Ferries are canceled. Commuter rail service will run on a severe weather schedule.
Amtrak canceled Acela service Tuesday between New York City and Boston, and more than 800 flights to and from Logan Airport have already been canceled.
You can find more information at Boston.gov/winter.
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The Associated Press Contributed to this report.
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