Major nor'easter to hit Northeast on Sunday night

Blizzard conditions, heavy snow, and coastal flooding expected across the region

Feb. 21, 2026 at 11:34am

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A powerful nor'easter is set to impact the Northeast region starting Sunday night and continuing through Monday. The storm is expected to bring heavy snow, strong winds, and the potential for blizzard conditions and coastal flooding, especially in eastern Massachusetts and along the coast.

Why it matters

This major winter storm has the potential to cause significant disruptions, including power outages, dangerous travel conditions, and property damage in coastal areas. Residents in the path of the storm should prepare for the possibility of school and business closures, as well as the need to shelter in place during the height of the storm.

The details

The storm is forecast to arrive Sunday evening, with steady snowfall beginning between 6 PM and midnight. The heaviest snow is expected to fall between midnight and 7 AM on Monday, with snowfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour possible. Total snow accumulations are expected to range from 12-18 inches across much of eastern Massachusetts, with localized areas potentially seeing up to 20 inches. Strong winds gusting up to 60 mph are also anticipated, which could result in blizzard conditions and widespread power outages, especially along the coast. In addition, astronomically high tides on Monday morning and afternoon raise the risk of coastal flooding in vulnerable areas.

  • Steady snowfall begins Sunday evening between 6 PM and midnight.
  • Heaviest snow expected between midnight and 7 AM on Monday.
  • Storm to taper off between 2 PM and 9 PM on Monday.
  • Astronomically high tides on Monday morning around 3 AM and Monday afternoon around 3:30 PM.

The players

Northeast region

The area of the United States that includes the states of New England, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, which is expected to be impacted by the major nor'easter.

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What they’re saying

“This is a major nor'easter. We are watching the coastline. We have a high tide on Monday morning around 3 A.M. and again Monday afternoon around 3:30. That Monday morning, high tide is astronomically high.”

— Kelly Ann Cicalese, Meteorologist (WCVB)

What’s next

Weather forecasters will continue to monitor the storm's progress and provide updates on snowfall totals, wind speeds, and the potential for coastal flooding as the system moves through the region.

The takeaway

Residents in the path of this major nor'easter should prepare for significant winter weather impacts, including the possibility of power outages, dangerous travel conditions, and coastal flooding. It's important to heed all safety warnings and instructions from local authorities during the height of the storm.