MA Weather: Winter Hangs On With More Snow This Weekend

Spring may be weeks away, but winter isn't ready to release its grip on Massachusetts just yet. The National Weather Service's forecast calls for more snow this weekend, and the agency has issued a winter weather advisory starting early Saturday morning.

The advisory will be in effect from 1 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. During that time, the NWS says we can expect 3-6 inches of snow in eastern and southeastern Massachusetts, including Boston. Drivers should plan on slippery road conditions and reduced visibility.

Expected totals indicate the bulk of the snow will hit Boston and the South Shore, which could see up to 6 inches. Certain parts of the Cape could see 4-6 inches, while most of the accumulation is expected to fall in the 2-4-inch range.

Forecasts say northern Massachusetts won't get hit too hard. The Merrimack Valley is expected to see 2-3 inches of snow, while the North Shore could get anywhere from 2- 4 inches.

There is also an 80 percent chance of additional rain and snow Sunday night into Monday, the NWS says.

MassDOT warns drivers that accumulation could make the roads wet and impact the Monday morning commute.

"Our snow and ice crews are closely watching the weather forecast and planning upcoming deployments of plows and other equipment," MassDOT Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver said. "We encourage anyone who will be traveling throughout the weekend to check roadway conditions and weather forecasts before getting behind the wheel, and exercise safe driving behavior at all times including reducing speeds and giving plenty of space to plows and other vehicles."

Important winter driving tips:

• 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 that 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.
• Seat belts should be worn at all times – it’s the law.
• Most importantly please remember to slow down.