The Snowstorm of ’26 Was a Record-Breaker. Here Are the Totals Around Boston.

A historic winter storm is rewriting the record books across Massachusetts after dumping staggering snowfall totals across the Greater Boston area. Dubbed by many meteorologists as the “Snowstorm of ’26,” the powerful nor’easter paralyzed travel, shuttered schools and businesses, and left neighborhoods buried under feet of snow.

From coastal communities to inland suburbs, the storm’s impact was both widespread and extraordinary. Early measurements confirm that several towns saw snowfall totals not recorded in decades — and in some cases, ever.

A Storm for the History Books

The storm began as a developing coastal low-pressure system before rapidly intensifying offshore — a classic New England nor’easter. As the system strengthened, bands of heavy snow pivoted over eastern Massachusetts, creating near-whiteout conditions at times.

Wind gusts in coastal areas exceeded 40 mph, causing blowing and drifting snow that compounded accumulation totals. For nearly 24 hours in some communities, snowfall rates reached two to three inches per hour.

By the time the skies cleared, Boston and its surrounding suburbs were left digging out from one of the most significant snow events in recent memory.

Official Totals Across Greater Boston

Here’s a look at some preliminary snowfall totals reported around the region:

Boston (Logan Airport): 22.8 inches

Cambridge: 24.5 inches

Somerville: 25.1 inches

Quincy: 27.3 inches

Brookline: 23.9 inches

Newton: 26.4 inches

Waltham: 24.8 inches

Framingham: 28.7 inches

Worcester: 30.2 inches

Several localized bands produced even higher totals, particularly west and south of the city. Meteorologists noted that slight shifts in storm track played a major role in determining who saw two feet versus nearly three.

For comparison, Boston averages about 49 inches of snow per winter season. This single storm delivered nearly half that amount in less than two days.

Travel Disruptions and Closures

As forecasts grew increasingly dire in the days leading up to the storm, officials urged residents to prepare early. Snow emergency parking bans were declared across multiple municipalities, including Boston and surrounding towns.

Flights at Boston Logan International Airport were grounded for extended periods as plow crews struggled to keep runways clear during peak snowfall. Hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed.

Public transportation services, including subway and commuter rail lines operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, ran on reduced schedules. Some bus routes were temporarily suspended due to impassable roads.

Governor-level emergency declarations mobilized National Guard units to assist stranded motorists and help clear major highways.

Why This Storm Was Different

While Boston is no stranger to heavy snow, the Snowstorm of ’26 stood out for several reasons:

1. Rapid Intensification:

Meteorologists observed a phenomenon known as “bombogenesis,” where atmospheric pressure drops rapidly, strengthening the storm at an accelerated rate.

2. Persistent Snow Bands:

A nearly stationary band of intense snowfall parked over eastern Massachusetts for hours, significantly boosting totals.

3. Wind and Drifting:

Even areas that officially recorded 22–24 inches experienced drifts well over three feet due to strong winds.

4. Timing:

The storm struck during a weekday, amplifying disruptions to schools, offices, and public services.

Some weather historians have compared the storm to past benchmark events, including the Blizzard of 1978 and the winter storms of 2015, though final rankings will depend on confirmed data and long-term analysis.

Digging Out: Community Response

In the aftermath, residents across the region emerged to begin the monumental task of shoveling sidewalks and clearing driveways. Snowplow crews worked around the clock, focusing first on primary arteries before moving into residential neighborhoods.

Hardware stores quickly sold out of ice melt and snow shovels. Local officials reminded homeowners to clear hydrants and check on elderly neighbors.

Despite the challenges, many residents embraced the rare beauty that followed. Snow-blanketed streets, frozen harbor views, and quiet neighborhoods offered postcard-worthy scenes once the wind subsided.

Economic and Infrastructure Impact

Major snowstorms carry significant economic consequences. Businesses closed for multiple days, and construction projects were halted. Delivery services faced delays as logistics networks struggled to recover.

Municipal budgets will likely feel the strain as well. Overtime costs for plow operators, salt supplies, and equipment maintenance can add up quickly after a storm of this magnitude.

At the same time, winter recreation areas benefited. Ski resorts in central and western Massachusetts reported a surge in interest following the heavy snowfall.

Looking Ahead

With long-range forecasts suggesting additional cold air patterns in place, officials are urging residents not to let their guard down. Large snowbanks combined with fluctuating temperatures could lead to icy conditions and potential flooding if rapid melting occurs.

City officials in Boston are monitoring storm drains and advising property owners to clear pathways for runoff. Emergency management teams remain on alert should additional winter systems develop.

A Storm That Will Be Remembered

The Snowstorm of ’26 has already secured its place in New England’s storied weather history. For many residents, it will be remembered as the storm that turned city streets into canyons of snow and tested the region’s winter resilience once again.

While cleanup will continue for days — perhaps weeks in some neighborhoods — the event also showcased the preparation and determination of local communities.

In a region accustomed to winter’s extremes, this storm still managed to surprise. And as the final snowfall totals are verified and archived, one thing is clear:

Boston just experienced a record-breaker.