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Robust nor’easter will challenge snowfall records

Bitter cold temperatures, rampant snowfall, and near-hurricane-force winds will accompany what is likely to be a record-setting winter storm. Originating from Alberta, Canada, the system is now tracking up the eastern coast of New England and wreaking havoc for millions. On Tuesday morning the low will undergo rapid intensification in a process called “bombogenesis,” with central pressure dropping more than 24 millibars in 24 hours. Tuesday’s weather will consist of heavy snowfall and whiteout conditions as the system slowly pivots around the southeastern coast of Cape Cod. With persistent northerly winds gusting to 50 mph, expect blizzard conditions and subzero windchill values.

Intense snowfall continues through Tuesday night, eventually letting up Wednesday morning as the low progresses to the northeast. Clearing will lead to mostly sunny skies by the afternoon, but breezy conditions and highs in the low 20s°F (-7°C) will keep windchill low. The Boston metro could pick up between 25 and 30 inches of snow when all is said and done, making up for a rather quiet winter. The current record for the snowiest storm was set in February of 2003, when Boston received 27.6” in just two days.