Updated Feb. 22
Powerful winds and potentially over two feet of snow are forecast to hit the Vineyard starting Sunday night.
The National Weather Service issued a blizzard warning for various parts of Massachusetts, including Martha’s Vineyard, from 4 pm Sunday to 7 am Tuesday as a result of the impending Winter Storm Hernando. The federal agency stated that “whiteout conditions” are expected, which could make travel conditions dangerous. This warning is shared by local first responders.
“When possible, stay off the roads during the storm to allow the plows to clear the roadway. If you know someone who may be in need of shelter, please reach out and we can assist in coordinating services. As always, be safe,” a Chilmark Police social media post reads. Meanwhile, down-Island police departments have announced that street parking bans will be in place from noon Sunday to 11 pm Monday, and all town halls will be closed during the storm.
As of Sunday afternoon, the National Weather Service forecast that the Island will see between a foot and over two feet of snow between Sunday night and into Monday night. During the storm, winds could be as high as 70 mph. Gov. Maura Healey also declared a state of emergency on Sunday ahead of the storm, activating 200 National Guard members to support storm responses across Massachusetts and directed non-emergency executive branch employees to work remotely on Monday.
Power outages are also possible from the high winds as well as snow weighing down tree limbs, which can lead to damaged power lines. Outages should be reported to Eversource at 1-800-592-2000. Anyone who comes across downed power lines should stay away and call 911. Local officials also say to “use generators outdoors only.”
Coastal roads are also expected to be impacted by flooding.
“This includes the Chappy Ferry Dock and Dock Street near Edgartown Harbor. In Vineyard Haven, Five Corners, Beach Road, and Water Street become impassable. In Oak Bluffs, flooding affects East Chop Drive, the section of Lake Avenue near Oak Bluffs Harbor, and Sea View Avenue, where debris may also wash onto the roadway,” a coastal flood warning reads in part, which is in effect from 1 am to 7 am on Monday.
The Dukes County Emergency Management Association also announced Sunday several shelter locations for those “experiencing power outages or unsafe heating conditions.”
- West Tisbury Free Public Library will serve as a daytime warming center, offering Wi-Fi and charging for devices.
- Location: 1042 State Rd, West Tisbury
- Hours: Monday, 8 am to 6 pm.
- Harbor Homes will offer an overnight shelter and offer meals. Regular shelter rules will be in effect.
- Location: 111 New York Ave, Oak Bluffs
- Hours: Sunday, 6 pm, through 8 am Tuesday. For entry after 7 pm, call 774-563-3687.
- Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society will offer emergency shelter for animals and livestock.
- Location: 35 Panhandle Rd, West Tisbury
- Contact: Chrystopher Lyons at 508-889-7891 or facilities@mvagsoc.org.
- The Ag Society asks those who need the emergency shelter to contact them as soon as possible. For rules and regulations, visit here.
Island emergency managers are asking people to prepare for the storm with the following guidance from the association:
- Be ready for possible power outages.
- Stock emergency kits with blankets, flashlights, batteries, nonperishable food, water, and medications. The association recommended at least three days of non-perishable food, water, and medications.
- Charge phones and medical devices.
- Verify sufficient heating fuel (oil, propane, wood, etc.).
- Clear snow from outdoor exhaust vents during and after the storm.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Charge phones, medical devices, and backup batteries.
- Protect pipes from freezing by insulating them and opening sink cabinets.
- Bring pets indoors and ensure their food and water don’t freeze.
- Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors.
- Enable wireless emergency alerts and monitor trusted sources for updates.
“Winter storms can knock out power and limit travel for days — especially here on the Island,” the association’s Saturday post reads. “Taking a few simple steps now can make a big difference later.
For Island-wide alerts, sign up here. Vineyard emergency managers also ask residents to check their towns’ official communications channels, like the website or social media, for updates. Edgartown residents can sign up for alerts by texting “Edgartown” to 877-550-8627.
Meanwhile, public transportation will also see disruptions. The Steamship Authority announced on Sunday afternoon that all ferry trips on Monday have been canceled due to the snowstorm, and its reservation office in Mashpee will be closed. Changes and cancellations fees for travel scheduled on Monday will be waived. The SSA also stated that service will continue Sunday evening “as conditions allow,” but the 9:45 pm departure from Woods Hole will not run since the Martha’s Vineyard, one of the ferries that run the route, will be berthed in the Cape town.
The Vineyard Transit Authority also announced Sunday that bus routes will be delayed or canceled Sunday evening into Monday.
Editor’s note: Updated with additional information about the storm’s potential impact, travel disruptions, the state’s response, and preparation tips from the Dukes County Emergency Management Association.