March 2017 North American blizzard
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2024}}
{{Short description|none}}
{{Infobox winter storm
|name = March 2017 North American Blizzard
|image location = March 2017 nor'easter 2017-03-14 1830Z.png
|image name = The extratropical cyclone responsible for the blizzard near peak intensity at 18:30 UTC (2:30 p.m. EDT) on March 14, over the U.S. East Coast
|alt =
|stormtype = Extratropical cyclone
Winter storm
Nor'easter
Bomb cyclone
Ice storm
Blizzard
|date formed = {{start date|2017|3|9}}
|date dissipated = {{end date|2017|3|18}}
|RSI = 10.66
|maximum amount = Snow – {{convert|58|in|cm}} in Bolton Valley, Vermont{{cite web|url=https://weather.com/storms/winter/news/winter-storm-stella-northeast-blizzard-warning-noreaster-snow-forecast-march-2017|title=Winter Storm Stella a Record Snowstorm for Binghamton, New York; Over 30 Inches of Snow Reported From Northeast Bombogenesis|date=March 14, 2017|work=The Weather Channel}}
Ice – {{convert|0.40|in|mm}} in Chesilhurst, New Jersey
|lowest pressure = 974
|fujitascale = EF1
|tornadoes = 3 on March 13 (all in Florida)
|tornado duration = 4 hours, 3 minutes
|enhanced = yes
|sustained wind =
|gust = {{convert|138|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} on Mount Washington, New Hampshire
|damages =
|power outages = 100,000+
|areas affected = Southwestern Canada, Great Plains, Upper Midwest, Ohio Valley, Northeastern United States, particularly the Mid-Atlantic states, New England), and the British Isles
|total fatalities = 16–19 fatalities
|partof = the 2016–17 North American winter
}}
The March 2017 North American blizzard also known as Winter Storm Stella was a major late-season blizzard that affected the Northeastern United States, New England and Canada, dumping up to {{convert|3|ft|in cm}} of snow in the hardest hit areas, mainly New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and southern Quebec. Forming out of an extratropical cyclone near the Northwest, the storm system dived into the northern portions of the United States, dropping light to moderate snow across the Great Lakes, Upper Midwest on March 11–12 before reaching the Ohio Valley the next day. It later coalesced into a powerful nor'easter off the East Coast, producing a swath of heavy snowfall across a large portion of the Northeast. The storm was given various unofficial names, such as Winter Storm Stella, Blizzard Eugene, and Blizzard of 2017.{{cite web|title=Winter Storm Stella was a Category 3 on Northeast Snowfall Impact Scale|url=https://weather.com/storms/winter/news/winter-storm-stella-northeast-blizzard-warning-noreaster-snow-forecast-march-2017|website=The Weather Channel|date=March 21, 2017|access-date=April 9, 2021}}{{cite web|author=Mike Cameron, Michael Agogliati, Rebecca Cashman, Kaitlyn Naples|date=March 12, 2017|title=Blizzard Eugene heading our way for Tuesday|url=https://www.wfsb.com/news/blizzard-eugene-heading-our-way-for-tuesday/article_2349aa5a-6691-5a5d-9f15-faf62fe93fda.html|website=wfsb.com|access-date=April 9, 2021}}{{cite web|author=Brian Lada|title=Photos: Blizzard of 2017 drops 42 inches of snow, brings travel to standstill in northeastern US|url=https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/photos-blizzard-of-2017-drops-42-inches-of-snow-brings-travel-to-standstill-in-northeastern-us/361827|website=Accuweather|access-date=April 9, 2021}}
Ahead of the storm, residents prepared in advance for the major nor'easter, with blizzard warnings issued for several states, including New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. Several officials had crews with salt trucks ready to deploy to clear roads. The system also disrupted travel across the country, with numerous flight cancellations at most of the major airports in the Northeast. It dropped a swath of moderate snow accumulation as it moved across the northern tier of the country, with as much as {{convert|13|in|cm}} reported. The storm was also responsible for ending a record streak without snowfall in Chicago, Illinois, where no snow had occurred since December 25, 2016.{{cite web|url=https://weather.com/news/news/chicago-no-snow-january-february-2017|title=Winter Storm Stella Ends Chicago's Record-Long Stretch Without Snow Cover|work=weather.com|access-date=March 13, 2017}}
Meteorological history
{{WPC storm path|WPC LPA Forecast Mar 13 2017 1958UTC.gif}}
On March 9, an extratropical cyclone formed in the North Pacific Ocean. On March 11, it began to affect parts of the Northwestern United States as well as British Columbia in Canada.{{cite web|url=http://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/archives/web_pages/sfc/sfc_archive_maps.php?arcdate=03/11/2017&selmap=2017031112&maptype=satsfcnps|title=WPC Surface Analysis for 12:00 UTC on 3/11/2017|work=Weather Prediction Center|date=March 11, 2017|access-date=March 12, 2017}} It eventually moved ashore later that day and transferred its energy to a new surface low, which began to move southeastwards into the United States as an Alberta clipper. The system moved swiftly across the Upper Midwest throughout the day of March 12, dropping a swath of accumulating snow of {{convert|3–6|in|cm}} as frontogenesis took place.{{cite web|url=http://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/archives/web_pages/sfc/sfc_archive_maps.php?arcdate=03/11/2017&selmap=2017031215&maptype=satsfcnps|title=WPC Surface Analysis for 15:00 UTC on 3/12/2017|work=Weather Prediction Center|date=March 12, 2017}} On March 13 at 15:00 UTC, the Weather Prediction Center began issuing storm summaries while the system was located west-northwest of St. Louis, Missouri.{{cite web|url=http://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/winter_storm_summaries/storm12/stormsum_1.html|title=Storm Summary Number 01 for Upper Midwest to Northeast Winter Storm|work=Weather Prediction Center|date=March 13, 2017}} Throughout the day, a weak secondary area of low pressure formed in the Gulf of Mexico and drifted northeastwards, while not expected to fuse with the other low to its north, it helped inject moisture from the ocean over the state of Florida, which gradually began to merge with the outermost fringes of the northerly system that had now moved into the Ohio Valley.{{cite web|url=http://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/archives/web_pages/sfc/sfc_archive_maps.php?arcdate=03/12/2017&selmap=2017031318&maptype=satsfcnps|title=WPC Surface Analysis for 15:00 UTC on 3/13/2017|work=Weather Prediction Center|date=March 13, 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/winter_storm_summaries/storm12/stormsum_2.html|title=Storm Summary Number 02 for Upper Midwest to Northeast Winter Storm|work=Weather Prediction Center|date=March 13, 2017}}
By 21:00 UTC that night, a new surface low developed off the Georgia coastline with a central pressure of {{convert|1010|mbar|inHg}},{{cite web|url=http://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/archives/web_pages/sfc/sfc_archive_maps.php?arcdate=03/12/2017&selmap=2017031321&maptype=satsfcnps|title=WPC Surface Analysis for 21:00 UTC on 3/13/2017|work=Weather Prediction Center|date=March 13, 2017}} eventually becoming the dominant low of the nor'easter. The storm began to rapidly deepen as it moved parallel to the East Coast of the United States, with the central pressure dropping to {{convert|986|mbar|inHg}} by 15:00 UTC on March 14 while it was just off the Maryland coastline.{{cite web|url=http://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/archives/web_pages/sfc/sfc_archive_maps.php?arcdate=03/12/2017&selmap=2017031415&maptype=satsfcnps|title=WPC Surface Analysis for 15:00 UTC on 3/14/2017|work=Weather Prediction Center|date=March 14, 2017}} The storm continued to intensify as it drifted northeastwards towards Long Island, continuing to produce an expansive area of snow with heavier rates embedded in snowbands across Connecticut, northern New York and most of interior New England, as well as parts of Canada.{{cite web|url=http://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/winter_storm_summaries/storm12/stormsum_6.html|title=Storm Summary Number 06 for Upper Midwest to Northeast Winter Storm|work=Weather Prediction Center|date=March 14, 2017}} The low subsequently reached its peak intensity of {{convert|974|mbar|inHg}} while just inland over Long Island. By 20:00 UTC, most of the snow had come to an end in New Jersey, Delaware, and Washington D.C., as the low began to move inland over New England; subsequently it also began to weaken as it traveled further inland, and by early on March 15, snow began to end in more parts of the region.{{cite web|url=http://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/winter_storm_summaries/storm12/stormsum_8.html|title=Storm Summary Number 08 for Upper Midwest to Northeast Winter Storm|work=Weather Prediction Center|date=March 15, 2017}} The system continued to weaken as it moved slowly through upper New England, the system continued to weaken, consequently, the Weather Prediction Center terminated storm summaries on the winter storm as nearly most of the moderate to heavy snow had stopped in the region and switched to rain. On March 18, the low that was formerly the blizzard had moved out to sea and dissipated.
=Forecasting controversy=
On March 14, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo stated that the storm was not as bad as previously anticipated, due to the change over to a mix of snow and sleet, but advised residents to not let their guard down, as the storm was still predicted to cause high wind gusts and coastal flooding.{{Cite news|url=http://kwbe.com/abc_national/severe-winter-storm-bears-down-on-northeast-abcid35877771/|title=Severe winter storm bears down on Northeast|work=Beatrice News Channel|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en-US}}
The reduction in snowfall totals was due to a shift in the storm's track to the west more towards the New Jersey coastline, which resulted in more mixed precipitation rather than snow. Initially, the National Weather Service predicted that the blizzard would leave New York City with up to {{convert|12–24|in|cm}} (rivaling it almost with the Great Blizzard of 1888), however these totals were later reduced due to the change in the system's track.{{Cite news|url=http://www.kansas.com/news/business/article138359753.html|title=The Latest: Tidal flooding in New Jersey as nor'easter hits|work=kansas|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170315001336/http://www.kansas.com/news/business/article138359753.html|archive-date=March 15, 2017|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news|url=http://live.nydailynews.com/Event/Tracking_the_2017_NYC_blizzard_updates_advisories_and_photos_from_the_March_snowstorm|title=Tracking the 2017 NYC blizzard: updates, advisories and photos from the March snowstorm|work=NY Daily News|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en}} Similarly, the metro area faced a similar situation a little over two years prior where New York City was predicted to receive up to {{convert|2–3|ft|in}} of snow, but only received less than half of the predicted amount due to a shift in the storm's track by {{convert|50–100|mi|km}}.
Meteorologists at the National Weather Service were aware of the changing conditions that led to lesser snow accumulations along the coast the night prior to the expected event. In a multi-office conference, however, forecasters decided to maintain the higher-than-likely snowfall predictions "out of extreme caution." They sought to avoid sending mixed and/or incorrect messages about a dangerous storm by maintaining a steady forecast.{{cite web|author=Seth Borenstein |publisher=Associated Press |date=March 14, 2017 |access-date=March 14, 2017 |title=Weather Service decided last minute not to cut snow forecast |url=https://apnews.com/8e8516da51234851b2fa50ee71d6636a/Weather-Service-decided-last-minute-not-to-cut-snow-forecast |archive-date=March 15, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170315174556/https://apnews.com/8e8516da51234851b2fa50ee71d6636a/Weather-Service-decided-last-minute-not-to-cut-snow-forecast |url-status=dead }}
Preparations
| class="wikitable" align="right" style="margin: 1em; margin-top: 0;"
|+ align="center" | Weather alerts at 6:36 p.m. EST (23:36 UTC) on March 13 in advance of the winter storm around Pennsylvania and New Jersey | colspan="4" align="center" | 250px | ||
| style="width:10px; height:10px; background:#FF4500;" | | Blizzard warning
| style="width:10px; height:5px; background:#FF69B4;" | | Winter storm warning |
| style="width:10px; height:10px; background:#9400D3;" | | Storm warning
| style="width:10px; height:5px; background:#DDA0DD;" | | Gale warning |
| style="width:10px; height:5px; background:#D8BFD8;" | | Small craft advisory
| style="width:10px; height:5px; background:#DAA520;" | | High wind warning |
| colspan="4" |{{Center|Weather alerts at 6:37 p.m. EST (23:37 UTC)
on March 13 in advance of the winter storm around the Boston metro area.}} | ||
| colspan="4" |{{Center|File:Watches and warnings for winter storm NWS Box 13 2017 2337 UTC.png}} |
Amtrak made several adjustments to service on the Northeast Corridor in preparation of the storm. On the Acela Express, service was suspended between New York City and Boston and reduced between Washington, D.C. and New York City on March 14. Northeast Regional trains were placed on a modified schedule on March 14 with several trains shortened or cancelled. Keystone Service trains were placed on a severe weather schedule for March 14.{{cite news|title=Amtrak announces snowstorm service plan|publisher=WPVI-TV|location=Philadelphia, PA|date=March 13, 2017|url=http://6abc.com/weather/amtrak-announces-snowstorm-service-plan/1798565/|access-date=March 14, 2017}} Bieber Transportation Group cancelled buses to Philadelphia and New York City on March 14.{{cite news|title=Bieber buses to, from Philadelphia, New York idled by storm|publisher=WFMZ-TV|location=Allentown, PA|date=March 14, 2017|url=http://www.wfmz.com/news/berks/bieber-buses-to-from-philadelphia-new-york-idled-by-storm/395068785|access-date=March 14, 2017}}
President Donald Trump postponed a meeting with Angela Merkel due to the nor'easter.{{Cite news|url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/mar/13/donald-trump-angela-merkel-postpone-meeting-due-sn/|title=Donald Trump, Angela Merkel postpone meeting due to snow forecast|newspaper=The Washington Times|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en-US}}
=Mid-Atlantic (United States)=
On March 11, the National Weather Service issued blizzard watches for parts of the Northeast, including New York City.{{cite web|url=https://weather.com/storms/winter/news/winter-storm-stella-blizzard-noreaster-south-snow-forecast-march-2017|title=Blizzard Warnings Issued as Winter Storm Stella Gears Up to Deliver More Than a Foot of Snow to a Widespread Swath of the Northeast|work=The Weather Channel|access-date=March 13, 2017}}
Late on March 12, officials issued a hazardous travel advisory in advance of the storm, which was predicted to bring up to {{convert|18|in|cm}} of snow to parts of the state, including Staten Island.{{cite web|url=http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2017/03/hazardous_travel_advisory_issu.html|title=Hazardous travel advisory issued in advance of winter storm 'Stella'|work=Silive.com|date=March 13, 2017 |access-date=March 13, 2017}}
The following day on March 13, New York City mayor Bill de Blasio urged the residents of the region to avoid traveling at any point due to the dangerous conditions and also allowing for sanitation crews to respond faster.{{cite web|url=https://weather.com/news/news/winter-storm-stella-new-york-impacts|title=Winter Storm Stella in New York, Tri-State: Mayor de Blasio Urges Residents to Avoid Travel Tuesday|work=The Weather Channel|access-date=March 13, 2017}} The New York City Department of Sanitation said that they had nearly 700 salt spreaders across the boroughs of the state, and 1,600 plows would be dispatched to clear the roadways. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo advised everyone in a statement that "[I] encourage all New Yorkers in affected regions to plan ahead, and avoid any unnecessary travel as the storm progresses," and also said to expect disruptions to travel and transportation.
File:March 2017 nor'easter 2017-03-13 1745Z.png on March 13]]
A state of emergency was declared in New York City on March 13, in which the above ground subway system will be shut down on March 14.{{Cite web|url=http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2017/03/13/march-snow-storm-preparations/|title=De Blasio, Cuom Declare States Of Emergency; Above-Ground MTA Subways, Schools Shut Down For Snowstorm|last=Says|first=Auggey|access-date=March 13, 2017}} LaGuardia Airport was also completely shut down.{{cite web | last=Gonzalez | first=Angi | title=LaGuardia Airport Turns into Ghost Town During Snow Storm | website=Spectrum News NY1 | date=March 15, 2017 | url=https://ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/news/2017/03/14/laguardia-airport-turns-into-ghost-town-during-nyc-snow-storm-stella | access-date=August 3, 2024}} The state also declared state of emergency.{{Cite news|url=https://www.northcountrypublicradio.org/news/story/33560/20170313/cuomo-declares-state-of-emergency-for-ny-as-nor-easter-advances|title=Cuomo declares state of emergency for NY as Nor'easter advances|work=NCPR|access-date=March 13, 2017}} The Wildlife Conservation Society closed all zoos and aquariums in New York City, and the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Empire State Building, and several museums and libraries closed as well.{{cite web | title=What's Closed for the Storm: Museums, Courts, Parks | website=NBC New York | date=March 14, 2017 | url=https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/ny-nj-snow-storm-parks-schools-zoos-museums-parks-new-york-new-jersey/423412/ | access-date=August 3, 2024}}
On March 13, a snow emergency was declared for Philadelphia, which was to go into effect later that night.{{cite web|url=http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2017/03/13/code-blues-snow-emergencies-issued-ahead-of-winter-storm/|title=Code Blues, Snow Emergencies Issued Ahead Of Winter Storm|work=cbslocal.com|access-date=March 13, 2017}}{{cite web|url=https://weather.com/storms/winter/news/philadelphia-pennsylvania-winter-storm-stella-preps-impacts|title=Snow Emergency Declared in Philly as Winter Storm Stella Looms|work=weather.com|access-date=March 13, 2017}} 50,000 tons of salt were said to be available and salting would begin when the snow arrived. Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf signed a proclamation of disaster that day and stated that speeds would be restricted on most major freeways.{{cite web|url=http://www.pennlive.com/news/2017/03/gov_wolfs_emergency_proclamati.html#incart_push|title=Gov. Wolf's emergency proclamation, travel restrictions: Here's what they entail|work=pennlive.com|date=March 13, 2017 |access-date=March 13, 2017}} Several businesses and attractions in Philadelphia closed on March 14 including the Philadelphia Zoo, Independence Hall National Historic Park, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.{{cite news|title=Philadelphia Zoo, Art Museum among businesses closed Tuesday|publisher=WPVI-TV|location=Philadelphia, PA|date=March 13, 2017|url=http://6abc.com/weather/philadelphia-zoo-art-museum-among-businesses-closed-tuesday/1798668/|access-date=March 13, 2017}}{{cite web | title=Several businesses and attractions opening late, closed Tuesday | website=6abc Philadelphia | date=March 14, 2017 | url=https://6abc.com/pennsylvania-news-snow-snowstorm-noreaster/1798668/ | access-date=August 3, 2024}} SEPTA made changes to bus and train service in anticipation of the storm, with service on several bus routes altered or suspended and Regional Rail service running on a modified Saturday schedule on March 14.{{cite news|title=SEPTA announces plan for snowstorm|publisher=WPVI-TV|location=Philadelphia, PA|date=March 13, 2017|url=http://6abc.com/weather/septa-announces-plan-for-snowstorm/1798503/|access-date=March 13, 2017}} Several flights at Philadelphia International Airport on March 14 were cancelled in anticipation of the storm.{{cite news|title=Airlines begin to cancel flights at Philadelphia Int'l Airport ahead of storm|publisher=WPVI-TV|location=Philadelphia, PA|date=March 13, 2017|url=http://6abc.com/weather/airlines-begin-to-cancel-flights-at-phl-ahead-of-storm/1797947/|access-date=March 13, 2017}} The Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority and LANta cancelled all service on March 14.{{cite news|title=LANTA, BARTA services canceled Tuesday|publisher=WFMZ-TV|location=Allentown, PA|date=March 14, 2017|url=http://www.wfmz.com/news/lehigh-valley/lanta-barta-services-canceled-tuesday/394676375|access-date=March 14, 2017}} The United States Postal Service closed post offices and cancelled mail delivery for several locations in Pennsylvania on March 14.{{cite news|title=Winter storm forces postal service to suspend deliveries|publisher=WFMZ-TV|location=Allentown, PA|date=March 14, 2017|url=http://www.wfmz.com/news/lehigh-valley/winter-storm-forces-postal-service-to-suspend-deliveries/394883482|access-date=March 14, 2017}}
Schools in North Jersey announced closures for Tuesday.{{Cite news|url=http://patch.com/new-jersey/brick/n-j-weather-forecast-blizzard-warning-7-counties-school-closings-snow-totals|title=N.J. Weather Forecast: Blizzard Warning In 7 Counties; School Closings, Snow Totals Increase In Nor'easter|date=March 13, 2017|work=Brick, NJ Patch|access-date=March 13, 2017|language=en-US}} A state of emergency was later declared by Governor Chris Christie, with state offices closed on March 14.{{cite news|title=State of Emergency for New Jersey ahead of snowstorm|publisher=WPVI-TV|location=Philadelphia, PA|date=March 13, 2017|url=http://6abc.com/weather/state-of-emergency-for-nj-ahead-of-snowstorm/1798791/|access-date=March 13, 2017}} New Jersey Transit suspended bus service starting at midnight on March 14 and implemented weekend schedules on commuter rail and light rail lines for March 14. PATCO Speedline announced they would be operating on a reduced snow schedule on March 14.{{cite news|title=NJ Transit, PATCO announce service changes due to snow|publisher=WPVI-TV|location=Philadelphia, PA|date=March 13, 2017|url=http://6abc.com/weather/nj-transit-announces-service-changes-due-to-snow/1798874/|access-date=March 13, 2017}}
File:Radar loop of WS Stella.gif
In Delaware, Governor John Carney issued a level one driving warning for New Castle County and DMV offices in New Castle County were closed on March 14.{{cite press release|title=Traffic Alert – DelDOT Update on Road Conditions|publisher=Delaware Department of Transportation|date=March 14, 2017|url=http://www.deldot.gov/home/newsroom/release.shtml?id=6472|access-date=March 14, 2017}}
Washington, D.C., was issued a winter storm warning on March 13.{{Cite news|url=http://www.nbcwashington.com/weather/stories/Storm-Team4-Brace-for-a-Cold-Slap-in-the-Face-and-the-Chance-of-Snow-Next-Week-415871383.html|title=What to Expect From the Storm: Updated Timing & Totals|work=NBC4 Washington|access-date=March 13, 2017|language=en}} MetroAccess is issued to shut down on March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://patch.com/district-columbia/washingtondc/winter-storm-shut-down-metroaccess-service-monday-afternoon|title=Winter Storm To Shut Down MetroAccess Service Monday Afternoon|date=March 12, 2017|work=Washington DC, DC Patch|access-date=March 13, 2017|language=en-US}}
Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe also declared a state of emergency late on March 13. The state of emergency was to allow state agencies to assist local governments as they respond to the storm.{{cite web|url=http://www.wusa9.com/weather/state-of-emergency-issued-ahead-of-winter-storm/422169811|title=State of emergency for Md. and Va. ahead of winter storm|last=TEGNA|work=wusa9.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}} Roughly 4,500 pieces of equipment were ready to plow once snow totals began to exceed two inches.
A state of emergency was declared in Maryland by Governor Larry Hogan, urging people to prepare for the storm and stay off the roads.{{cite web|url=https://weather.com/news/news/winter-storm-stella-noreaster-impacts|title=Winter Storm Stella: At Least 2 Dead in Wisconsin, States of Emergency Declared|work=weather.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}
=New England=
In Boston, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency said that they had mechanics working on loads of equipment to get ready for plowing the roads.{{cite web|url=http://www.fox25boston.com/news/massachusetts-residents-prepare-for-major-mid-march-snowstorm/502042012|title=Massachusetts residents prepare for major mid-March snowstorm|last=EndPlay|date=March 13, 2017|access-date=March 13, 2017}} Approximately 130 flights were cancelled as of the morning of March 13.{{cite web|url=https://weather.com/storms/winter/news/boston-winter-storm-stella-massachusetts-preps-impacts|title=Boston Preps For Winter Storm Stella Amid Blizzard, Flood Watches|work=The Weather Channel|access-date=March 13, 2017}}
In advance of the nor'easter, the Connecticut Department of Transportation readied 634 trucks and 250 contractors.{{Cite news|url=http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Blizzard-warning-issued-with-higher-snow-totals-10997255.php|title=Blizzard warning issued with higher snow totals|work=Connecticut Post|access-date=March 13, 2017}} On March 13, Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy issued a statewide travel ban, ordering all non-essential first and second shift employees to remain home. Prominent educational institutions, such as the University of Connecticut and Yale University, closed campuses while local districts shut down as well. The Department of Motor Vehicles cancelled all scheduled road tests. State police planned to ready additional staff leading up to the storm. Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim declared a snow emergency late on March 12 while Hartford officials warned city residents of a parking ban beginning at 8 p.m. EDT the following day. The city of New Haven issued a citywide travel ban effective on March 14. Airport officials at Bradley International Airport began organizing plans for snow removal in the wake of the snowstorm. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority deployed extra staff and specialized equipment, while Peter Pan Bus Lines canceled services from upstate New York to Washington D.C. Eversource Energy and The United Illuminating Company contacted city and town leaders for organization prior to the storm and assistance in its wake.{{cite news|author=Nicholas Rondinone|title=Governor Issues Travel Ban As State Braces For 1 To 2 Feet Of Snow|url=http://www.courant.com/weather/hc-march-noreaster-coming-20170313-story.html|newspaper=Hartford Courant|date=March 13, 2017|access-date=March 13, 2017}} All state roads were closed to everyone except for emergency vehicles.{{cite web | last=Johnson | first=Patrick | title=Connecticut closes I-91, other highways for Winter Storm Stella | website=masslive | date=March 14, 2017 | url=https://www.masslive.com/news/2017/03/connecticut_closes_i-91_other.html | access-date=August 3, 2024}} At 4 p.m. EST (21:00 UTC) nearly the whole state went into a blizzard warning, except for shoreline areas of Middlesex and New London counties.{{Cite web|url=https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=CT1258445A75CC.BlizzardWarning.12584475E8C0CT.BOXWSWBOX.ea0736fd75ca2b69e62750a6bc5eeeb3|title=Alert for Northern Fairfield; Northern Middlesex; Northern New Haven; Northern New London; Southern Fairfield; Southern New Haven|date=March 13, 2017|website=alerts.weather.gov|access-date=March 14, 2017}}{{Cite web|url=https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=CT1258445A75CC.BlizzardWarning.12584475E8C0CT.BOXWSWBOX.ea0736fd75ca2b69e62750a6bc5eeeb3|title=Alert for Hartford; Tolland|date=March 13, 2017|website=alerts.weather.gov|access-date=March 14, 2017}}{{Cite web|url=https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=CT1258445A75CC.BlizzardWarning.12584475E8C0CT.BOXWSWBOX.5053216de8c69f0f330a6e5d44e7fe7a|title=Alert for Windham|date=March 13, 2017|website=alerts.weather.gov|access-date=March 14, 2017}}{{Cite web|url=https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=CT1258445A743C.BlizzardWarning.125844768500CT.ALYWSWALY.d2e5dab31d5809a1b5d07397cd21d737|title=Alert for Northern Litchfield; Southern Litchfield|date=March 14, 2017|website=alerts.weather.gov|access-date=March 14, 2017}}{{Cite web|url=https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=CT1258445A77C0.WinterStormWarning.125844768500CT.OKXWSWOKX.641e9cadf9adf55962888b6e0d101909|title=Eastern Long Island; Southern Middlesex; Southern New London|date=March 13, 2017|website=alerts.weather.gov|access-date=March 14, 2017}}
In Rhode Island, parking bans were issued in cities statewide on March 13.{{Cite news|url=http://turnto10.com/news/local/parking-bans-issued-as-crews-prepare-for-noreaster|title=Parking bans issued as crews prepare for nor'easter|last=San Miguel|first=Michelle|work=WJAR|access-date=March 13, 2017|language=en-US}} Utilities crews prepared for the snow on March 14.{{Cite web|url=http://wpri.com/2017/03/13/utilities-crews-prepare-for-late-march-snowstorm-tue/|title=Utilities, crews prepare for late-March snowstorm|last1=Peixoto|first1=Julianne|last2=Tomison|first2=Bill|date=March 13, 2017|website=WPRI 12 Eyewitness News|access-date=March 13, 2017}}
Some town hall meetings were canceled are postponed in New Hampshire, including Manchester, due to the storm.{{Cite news|url=http://www.wmur.com/article/town-officials-residents-preparing-for-noreaster-set-to-hit-nh/9124318|title=Town officials, residents preparing for nor'easter set to hit NH|last=Callery|first=Tim|date=March 13, 2017|work=WMUR|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.wmur.com/article/noreaster-forces-postponement-of-some-nh-town-meetings-elections/9125433|title=Some Town Meetings postponed because of impending nor'easter|last=McElveen|first=Josh|date=March 14, 2017|work=WMUR|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://nhpr.org/post/noreaster-brings-gusts-confusion-about-town-meeting-day|title=Nor'easter Brings Gusts of Confusion About Town Meeting Day|last=Moon|first=Jason|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en}} Schools around the southern part of the state closed on March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://www.wmur.com/article/school-districts-weigh-closing-as-noreaster-nears/9127381|title=School districts weigh closing as nor'easter nears|last=Carosa|first=Kristen|date=March 13, 2017|work=WMUR|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en}}
The Maine Department of Transportation had to prepare for the storm in Eastern Maine on March 13.{{Cite news|url=http://www.wcsh6.com/weather/mdot-pulbic-works-crews-in-eastern-maine-cities-prepare-for-noreaster/422198490|title=MDOT, Public Works Crews in Eastern Maine cities prepare for Nor'easter|last=TEGNA|work=WCSH|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en-US}}
= Canada =
Winter storm warnings were issued in the Canadian Maritimes on March 13 and for all Southern and Eastern Quebec. Because the system tracked farther inland than expected on the US East Coast, snow accumulations forecast constantly increased on March 12–13 in Ontario and Quebec.{{Cite web|url=https://www.theweathernetwork.com/news/articles/atlantic-canada-targeted-by-new-noreaster/80238|title=Powerful nor'easter has Atlantic Canada in its sights|last=Inc.|first=Pelmorex|website=The Weather Network|language=en-CA|access-date=March 13, 2017}}
Impact
= New England =
== Massachusetts ==
Snow started falling in the early hours of March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://www.tbo.com/ap/national/ap-top-news-at--am-edt-ap_national4b812454a8ef5f3ba0b6a835d9f96e08|title=AP Top News at 12:08 a.m. EDT|date=March 14, 2017|work=TBO.com|access-date=March 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170314092119/http://www.tbo.com/ap/national/ap-top-news-at--am-edt-ap_national4b812454a8ef5f3ba0b6a835d9f96e08|archive-date=March 14, 2017|url-status=dead}} West Springfield had received 3 inches of snow by 9:15 a.m. EST (12:15 UTC).{{Cite news|url=https://www.boston.com/weather/local-news/2017/03/14/heres-how-much-snow-has-fallen-in-massachusetts-so-far|title=Here's how much snow has fallen in Massachusetts so far|date=March 14, 2017|work=Boston.com|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en-US}}
Hurricane-force wind gusts of {{convert|79|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} were recorded in Wellfleet, Massachusetts and of {{convert|77|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} on Plum Island.{{Cite news|url=http://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?site=NWS&issuedby=BOX&product=PNS |title=NWS Boston Public Information Statement |access-date=March 14, 2017 |language=en |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170315021411/http://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?site=NWS&issuedby=BOX&product=PNS |archive-date=March 15, 2017 }}
Except for pockets, most of the snow dissipated in the night of March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://nation.com.pk/international/15-Mar-2017/monster-storm-wallops-northeast-us|title=Monster storm wallops northeast US|work=The Nation|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/news/winter-storm-update-snow-mid-atlantic-northeast-march-2017/|title=Winter storm update: Snow, sleet blast mid-Atlantic, Northeast|access-date=March 19, 2017|language=en}} Due to the wind cycle, Boston was at nearly {{Convert|40|°F|°C|abbr=on}} on the night of March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://www.necn.com/weather/Riding-The-Storm-Out-416176423.html|title=Storm Moves Out, Leaves Icy Roads Behind|work=NECN|access-date=March 16, 2017|language=en}}
== Connecticut ==
Snow started falling in the early hours of March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/national-international/Flights-Scrapped-Schools-Closed-Noreaster-Lashes-Region-416092223.html|title=Flights Scrapped, Schools Closed as Nor'easter Lashes Region|work=NBC Connecticut|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en}} Except for pockets, most of the snow dissipated in the night of March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://www.courant.com/weather/hc-connecticut-march-noreaster-0315-20170313-story.html|title=Travel Ban Ends As Snow, Sleet Continue To Fall|last=Rondinone|first=Nicholas|work=courant.com|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.courant.com/weather/hc-connecticut-digs-out-noreaster-0316-20170315-story.html|title=State Continues To Dig Out After March Nor'easter|last=Rondinone|first=Nicholas|work=courant.com|access-date=March 19, 2017|language=en-US}} A man died in East Hartford after being hit by a plow truck.{{Cite news|url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/mar/14/the-latest-1700-power-outages-in-connecticut/|title=The Latest: Some flights expected at Bradley Tuesday night|newspaper=The Washington Times|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|url=http://connecticut.cbslocal.com/2017/03/14/man-killed-by-plow/|title=Man Killed By Plow|access-date=March 15, 2017}} Approximately 1,700 customers lost power during the storm.{{Cite web|url=http://wtnh.com/2017/03/14/eversource-responds-to-thousands-of-outages-across-the-state/|title=Eversource responds to thousands of outages across the state|last1=Ceneviva|first1=Alex|last2=Staff|first2=WTNH com|date=March 14, 2017|website=WTNH Connecticut News|access-date=March 15, 2017}} Some areas, including Middletown got up to {{Convert|21|in|cm}} of snow.{{Cite news|url=http://connecticut.news12.com/news/litchfield-county-among-areas-hardest-hit-by-storm-1.13268302?qr=1|title=Litchfield County among areas hardest-hit by storm|work=News 12 Connecticut|access-date=March 19, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170319200009/http://connecticut.news12.com/news/litchfield-county-among-areas-hardest-hit-by-storm-1.13268302?qr=1|archive-date=March 19, 2017|url-status=dead}}
== Rhode Island ==
Snow started falling in the early hours of March 14. Except for pockets, most of the snow dissipated in the night of March 14. Rhode Island wasn't as badly hit as other states, due to its location to the Atlantic Ocean.{{Cite news|url=http://turnto10.com/news/local/flights-canceled-schools-closed-as-noreaster-lashes-region|title=Rhode Island rides out March nor'easter|publisher=Associated Press|work=WJAR|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en-US}} It toppled a wind turbine, due to winds.{{Cite news|url=http://www.news9.com/story/34800093/the-latest-strong-winds-fell-wind-turbine-in-rhode-island|title=The Latest: Trains returning; cold threatens cherry blossoms|access-date=March 19, 2017|language=en}}
== Northern New England ==
Snow started falling in the three states of Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire on the morning of March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://wgme.com/news/local/powerful-noreaster-expected-to-slam-maine-with-over-a-foot-of-snow|title=Powerful nor'easter expected to slam Maine with over a foot of snow|last=WGME|work=WGME|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en-US}}{{Citation|last=Skarupa|first=Kevin|title=Watch: Snow moving into New Hampshire this morning|date=March 14, 2017 |url=http://www.wmur.com/article/watch-snow-moving-into-new-hampshire-this-morning/9129442|language=en|access-date=March 14, 2017}}
Maine experienced blizzard conditions in some areas.{{Cite web|url=http://www.pressherald.com/2017/03/14/massive-noreaster-bringing-blizzard-conditions-to-york-cumberland-counties/|title=Nor'easter brings blizzard conditions, cuts power to thousands in southern Maine – Portland Press Herald|last1=Writer|first1=Dennis Hoey Staff|last2=Writer|first2=Gillian Graham Staff|date=March 14, 2017|website=Press Herald|access-date=March 15, 2017}} Except for pockets, the snow ended in the mid-afternoon of March 15.{{Cite web|url=https://bangordailynews.com/2017/03/15/news/winter-storm-dumps-nearly-2-feet-of-snow-in-parts-of-maine/|title=Winter storm dumps nearly 2 feet of snow in parts of Maine|last1=McLean|first1=Danielle|last2=staff|first2=B. D. N.|website=The Bangor Daily News|date=March 15, 2017 |access-date=March 16, 2017}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.pressherald.com/2017/03/15/mainers-dig-out-after-blizzard-dumps-more-than-foot-of-snow-on-state/|title=Thousands remain powerless after record-breaking snowfall – Portland Press Herald|last1=Writer|first1=Dennis Hoey Staff|last2=Writer|first2=Gillian Graham Staff|date=March 15, 2017|website=Press Herald|access-date=March 16, 2017}}
Burlington, Vermont snow's lingered around for a while.{{Cite news|url=http://digital.vpr.net/post/major-noreaster-dumping-snow-across-vermont-heres-what-you-need-know|title=A Major Nor'easter Is Dumping Snow Across Vermont. Here's What You Need To Know|last=Staff|first=News|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en}} The snow ended on the morning of March 15.{{Cite news|url=http://www.necn.com/weather/stories/Cleanup-Underway-After-Noreaster-Slams-New-England-416206313.html|title=Cleanup Continues After Tuesday's Storm|work=NECN|access-date=March 16, 2017|language=en}}
The nor'easter produced maximum wind gusts (at elevation) of {{convert|128-138|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} at Mount Washington, New Hampshire.{{Cite news|url=http://www.wmur.com/article/safety-urged-as-granite-staters-dig-out-from-march-noreaster/9134705|title=What you need to know to stay safe after March nor'easter|last=Downey|first=KC|date=March 15, 2017|work=WMUR|access-date=March 16, 2017|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.laconiadailysun.com/newsx/local-news/102828-wind-storm|title=No juice – Thousands without power after storm|work=laconia|access-date=March 16, 2017|language=en-gb}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.nbcboston.com/weather/stories/Icy-Frozen-Snowpack-Remains-After-Noreaster-Slams-New-England-416208783.html|title=Icy, Frozen Snowpack Remains After Nor'easter|work=NBC Boston|access-date=March 16, 2017|language=en}} The snow ended on the morning of March 15.
= Mid-Atlantic =
== New York ==
File:New York-JFK (33443831285).jpg after the storm]]
Western New York started getting hit by snow during the evening of March 13.{{Cite news|url=http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/State-local-officials-prepare-for-March-10999607.php|title=State, local officials prepare for March nor'easter|work=Times Union|access-date=March 14, 2017}} The strongest parts of the storm on March 14 hit the Catskills area of the state.{{Cite news|url=http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/NY-NJ-Snow-Storm-MTA-Subway-School-LIRR-Bridge-Thruway-Blizzard-Noreaster-Emergency-Roads-Trains-Airports-New-York-New-Jersey-416010483.html|title=Latest Snow Guide: Metro-North Shutting Down, More on Travel|work=NBC New York|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en}} Ilion, New York saw {{convert|7|in|cm}} in just one hour.[https://twitter.com/BillKardas/status/841745852607651842 7" of snow in the past hour in Ilion!], Twitter The blizzard warning for New York City was rescinded early in the morning.{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/14/nyregion/blizzard-winter-storm-stella.html|title=Snow Forecast Downgraded in New York City|last=The New York Times|date=March 14, 2017|work=The New York Times|access-date=March 14, 2017|issn=0362-4331}} Freezing rain and sleet was common in the southern areas of the state, along with flooding.{{Cite news|url=http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/new-york-flooding-sea-bright-red-hook-storm-snow-coastal-flooding-416142853.html|title=Surging Nor'easter Floods Coastal Areas of NJ, NY|work=NBC New York|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/Flights-Scrapped-Schools-Closed-Noreaster-Lashes-Region-416092223.html|title=Nor'easter Delivers Snow, Sleet and Travel Woes|work=NBC New York|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en}} By the evening of March 15, except for small bands of snow in Central New York, the snow had ended.{{Cite web|url=http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2017/03/15/snowstorm-road-conditions-cleanup/|title=Icy Mess On Roads, Sidewalks A Night After Snowstorm|access-date=March 16, 2017}} 3–6 deaths were reported in the state.{{Cite news|url=http://www.channel3000.com/weather/snowstorm-weakens-after-leaving-at-least-7-dead/397426635|title=Storm delivers 30 inches of snow, 7 deaths|date=March 16, 2017|work=WISC|access-date=March 20, 2017|language=en-US|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170321092016/http://www.channel3000.com/weather/snowstorm-weakens-after-leaving-at-least-7-dead/397426635|archive-date=March 21, 2017}}{{Cite news|url=https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/officials-people-died-western-ny-windstorms-aftermath-46123356|title=Officials: 6 people died in western NY windstorm's aftermath|work=ABC News|access-date=March 20, 2017|language=en}} In New York City, where snow mixed with rain, accumulation was reduced to {{convert|7.6|in|cm}}.{{cite news |last1=Adame |first1=Erick |title=Big snowstorms can still happen in March |url=https://www.ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/weather/2021/03/12/a-looking-back-at-nyc-march-snowstorms |access-date=October 28, 2022 |publisher=NY1 |date=March 12, 2021}} Accumulation was further reduced on Long Island, where most of the island saw totals under {{convert|5|in|cm}}.{{cite web | last=McAtee | first=Paige | title=Long Island Snow Totals [UPDATED] 3/14/17 | website=Port Washington, NY Patch | date=March 14, 2017 | url=https://patch.com/new-york/portwashington/long-island-snow-totals-3-14-17 | access-date=August 3, 2024}}
== New Jersey ==
Snow started falling on the night of March 13.{{Cite news|url=http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/NY-NJ-Snow-Storm-Parks-Schools-Zoos-Museums-Parks-New-York-New-Jersey-416092793.html|title=What's Closed for the Storm: Museums, Courts, Parks|work=NBC New York|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en}} The snow had ended by the evening of March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2017/03/live_updates_on_nj_snowstorm_school_closings_traff.html|title=Live updates: Nor'easter blasts N.J. with heavy snow, high winds|work=NJ.com|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en-US}} Flooding was also caused by this storm.{{Cite web|url=http://pix11.com/2017/03/14/noreaster-spurs-moderate-flooding-at-jersey-shore/|title=Nor'easter spurs moderate flooding at Jersey Shore|date=March 15, 2017|website=New York's PIX11 / WPIX-TV|access-date=March 15, 2017}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2017/03/yes_this_nj_wave_is_real_and_it_was_spectacular.html|title=Yes, this wave was in N.J., and it was spectacular|work=NJ.com|access-date=March 19, 2017|language=en-US}} Atlantic City, New Jersey recorded {{convert|3.02|in|mm|abbr=on}} of rain, an all time March record.{{cite web | title=Record-Setting March Nor'easter | website=NRCC Home Page | date=March 17, 2017 | url=http://www.nrcc.cornell.edu/services/blog/2017/03/17/index.html | access-date=August 3, 2024}} Along with high winds, beach erosion was common along the southern shore.{{Cite news|url=http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/south-jersey-shore-towns-assess-beach-erosion-after-nor-easter/article_3c6fd791-597a-5394-89d6-297859f65b84.html|title=South Jersey shore towns assess beach erosion after nor'easter|last=Tomczak|first=Jack|work=Press of Atlantic City|access-date=March 19, 2017|language=en}} A National Hockey League game between the New Jersey Devils and Winnipeg Jets was postponed.{{cite web | last=Ryan | first=Chris | title=Devils vs. Jets game postponed due to snowstorm | website=NJ.com | date=March 14, 2017 | url=https://www.nj.com/devils/2017/03/devil_vs_jets_postponed_due_to_snowstorm.html | access-date=August 3, 2024}}
== Pennsylvania ==
File:Winter_storm_Stella.jpg.]]
Snow started falling on the night of March 13.{{Cite news|url=http://6abc.com/news/northeast-braces-for-massive-late-winter-storm/1799206/|title=Northeast braces for massive late winter storm|date=March 14, 2017|work=6abc Philadelphia|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en-US}} Except for small pockets, the snow ended by the early-morning of March 15.{{Cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/03/14/us/northeast-winter-weather/index.html|title=Nor'easter moving north as blizzard warning remains in some areas|author=Jason Hanna, Madison Park and Darran Simon|website=CNN|date=March 14, 2017 |access-date=March 16, 2017}} The National Guard ended bringing a sick child to the hospital during the storm.{{Cite web|url=http://fox8.com/2017/03/15/national-guard-state-troopers-escort-sick-toddler-to-hospital-during-noreaster/|title=National Guard, state troopers escort sick toddler to hospital during Nor'easter|date=March 15, 2017|website=fox8.com|access-date=March 19, 2017}} 40,000 people lost power during the storm.{{Cite news|url=http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/weather/stories/Noreaster-Snow-Wind-416024743.html|title=Nor'easter Leaves Snow, Ice, Flooding & Power Outages|work=NBC 10 Philadelphia|access-date=March 19, 2017|language=en}} Three deaths have been reported from the state.{{Cite news|url=http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/weather/stories/Shoveling-Death-Pennsylvania-Pottsville-3-Dead-Elderly-Woman--416276683.html|title=3, Including Elderly Woman, Die While Shoveling Snow|work=NBC 10 Philadelphia|access-date=March 19, 2017|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.pennlive.com/news/2017/03/three_pa_residents_die_shoveli.html|title=Three Pa. residents die shoveling snow from winter storm Stella: Coroner|work=PennLive.com|access-date=March 20, 2017|language=en-US}} Mail delivery from the United States Postal Service was suspended in many areas.
= South =
== Maryland ==
Snow started falling on the night of March 13.{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/capital-weather-gang/wp/2017/03/13/updates-snow-moving-into-d-c-area-precipitation-to-become-heavy-late-tonight/|title=Updates: Snow moving into D.C. area, precipitation to become heavy late tonight|last1=Stillman|first1=Dan|date=March 13, 2017|newspaper=The Washington Post|access-date=March 14, 2017|last2=Samenow|first2=Jason|language=en-US|issn=0190-8286|last3=Stillman|first3=Dan|last4=Samenow|first4=Jason}} It had turned into sleet by the mid-morning of March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://www.fox5dc.com/weather/241444472-story|title=Late-season snowstorm hits DC area|last=Fox|work=WTTG|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en-US}} It left the state by the late-afternoon of March 14.{{Cite web|url=http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/03/14/the-nor-easter-left-its-mark-on-carroll-county-md/|title=The Nor' Easter Left Its Mark On Maryland|last=Hellgren|first=Mike|access-date=March 15, 2017}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.wbaltv.com/article/noreaster-leads-to-accidents-damage-power-outages-in-maryland/9134478|title=Nor'easter leads to accidents, damage, power outages in Maryland|last=May|first=Adam|date=March 15, 2017|work=WBAL|access-date=March 19, 2017|language=en}}{{Cite web|url=http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/03/14/the-nor-easter-left-its-mark-on-carroll-county-md/|title=The Nor' Easter Left Its Mark On Maryland|last=Hellgren|first=Mike|access-date=March 19, 2017}}
== Virginia ==
File:Snow falling in Hybla Valley, night of March 13,2017.jpg, Virginia, the night of March 13.]]Snow started falling on the evening of March 13. It had turned into sleet by the mid-morning of March 14. It left the state by the morning of March 14.{{Cite news|url=http://www.richmond.com/weather/nor-easter-departs-from-va-but-cold-winds-will-continue/article_3268f359-a171-5ea9-98ed-6ef488e7cacb.html|title=Near-record cold for Richmond in the wake of the nor'easter|last=Boyer|first=John|work=Richmond Times-Dispatch|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en}}
== Washington, D.C. ==
Snow started falling on the evening of March 13. By the start of the day of March 14, it had turned into a wintry mix, then to rain.{{Cite news|url=http://wtop.com/weather/2017/03/survival-guide-dc-area-braces-wallop-snow/slide/1/|title=Survival Guide: Area braces for wallop of snow, sleet {{!}} WTOP|date=March 14, 2017|work=WTOP|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|url=http://washington.cbslocal.com/2017/03/14/dc-area-storm-brings-rain-snow/|title=D.C.-Area Storm Brings More Rain Than Snow|access-date=March 14, 2017}} It left the area by the afternoon of March 14. Washington Dulles airport's flights starting departing at the end of the day.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2017/03/14/thousands-of-flights-canceled-as-winter-storm-stella-barrels-down-northeast.html|title=Transit slowly resumes after thousands of canceled flights delayed 500,000 travelers amid storm|last=Wang|first=Christine|date=March 14, 2017|website=CNBC|access-date=March 15, 2017}}
= Canada =
== Quebec and Ontario ==
The snow began hitting Ontario and Quebec on March 13 around noon.{{Cite news|url=https://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/winter-storm-warning-heavy-snow-zero-visibility|title=Chaos on Quebec roads as winter storm blows in|date=March 15, 2017|work=Montreal Gazette|access-date=March 16, 2017|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.cp24.com/weather/winter-storm-hits-southern-ontario-messy-commute-expected-tuesday-1.3322212|title=Winter storm hits southern Ontario; messy commute expected Tuesday|last=Freeman|first=Codi Wilson and Joshua|work=CP24|access-date=March 16, 2017|language=en-CA}} It rapidly intensified in the afternoon over portions of Southern Quebec and the Eastern Townships before becoming a powerful blizzard over Montreal and its South Shore, as heavy snow bands came from the South-East and did a wrap-around effect just on the South Shore of Montreal, where the snow fell at a rate of more than 7.5 cm/hr (3 in/hr) for more than 6 hours between 6PM and midnight.[https://www.meteomedia.com/nouvelles/articles/tempete-hivernale--le-quebec-sur-un-pied-dalerte/80271 More than 75 cm in Some Areas – Weather Network (french Météo Media)] {{in lang|fr}} Environment Canada reported that a blizzard officially occurred in Montreal and Quebec City. The storm continued to track Northeast and affected Quebec City and Eastern Quebec where blizzard conditions were also occurring in the night. At the end of the blizzard, 18 cm (7 in) were recorded in Ottawa, 40 cm (16 in) in Montreal, 35 cm (14 in) in Quebec City, 55 cm (22 in) in Sherbrooke, 70 cm (28 in) in Drummondville, and more than 75 cm (30 in) in several locations such as Saint-Hubert, Vaudreuil-Dorion and Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.
Winds from the Northeast increased in the Saint Lawrence River between Montreal and Quebec City in the evening, producing the blizzard. Wind gusts reached 107 km/h (66 mph) at Montreal Pierre-Elliott Trudeau International Airport, 113 km/h (70 mph) at Saint-Hubert Airport on the South Shore and 140 km/h (87 mph) at Quebec International Airport. Numerous road pileups occurred, most notably on Ontario Highway 401 near Mallorytown, on Quebec highway 20 near Saint-Zotique (which caused a major fire, destroying several semis and killing one of their drivers), on highway 10 near Magog, on highway 40 near Lavaltrie and on Highway 20 near Sainte-Hélène de Bagot. Road closures included highway 15 near the USA border, highway 10 near Magog, highway 20 in Saint-Zotique and Saint-Eugène, and most notably on highway 13 on Montreal Island, where several hundreds of cars and trucks were left trapped for more than 14 hours due to communication and logistic issues complicating the evacuation.
In Quebec, many areas were left without power for more than 24 hours. In Quebec City, the Saint-Lawrence river stepped out of its riverbed, flooding both areas of Quebec City and Lévis.{{cite news|date=March 15, 2017 |title=Le fleuve déborde dans la région de Québec|url=http://ici.radio-canada.ca/nouvelle/1022400/fleuve-saint-laurent-debordement-tempete-quebec |publisher=ICI Radio-Canada |language=fr}} Five people were killed during the storm itself.{{cite news |last1=Duchaine |first1=Gabrielle |last2=Teisceira-Lessard |first2=Philippe |title=Tempête: cinq morts, perturbations majeures dans les transports|url=http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/201703/15/01-5078854-tempete-cinq-morts-perturbations-majeures-dans-les-transports.php |date= March 15, 2017|work=La Presse |access-date=March 17, 2017|language=fr}} At least two more (both elderly males) were found dead in Montreal in parked cars over the following days, presumably killed by heart attacks while attempting to clear them out.{{cite news |last=Perron |first=Lousi-Samuel |title=Tempête: un autre homme trouvé mort dans une voiture à Montréal|url=http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/justice-et-affaires-criminelles/faits-divers/201703/16/01-5079395-tempete-un-autre-homme-trouve-mort-dans-une-voiture-a-montreal.php |date=March 16, 2017 |work=La Presse |access-date=March 17, 2017}}
== Atlantic Canada ==
The storm started affected New Brunswick in the afternoon on March 14, with the other Atlantic Canadian provinces being hit in the early evening.{{Cite web|url=https://www.theweathernetwork.com/news/articles/nor-easter-hits-eastern-canada-snow-wind-blizzard-conditions/79269|title=Atlantic Canada buried by blizzard, another nor'easter nears|last=Inc.|first=Pelmorex|website=The Weather Network|language=en-CA|access-date=March 15, 2017}}{{Cite news|url=http://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/hazardous-conditions-expected-as-nor-easter-blasts-into-atlantic-canada-1.3324983|title=Hazardous conditions expected as nor'easter blasts into Atlantic Canada|work=CTV Atlantic|access-date=March 15, 2017|language=en-CA}} The Maritime's snow ended at the night of March 15, even though Newfoundland continues to have snow.{{Cite web|url=http://fox6now.com/2017/03/15/snowstorm-leaves-us-for-canada-at-least-7-dead/|title=Snowstorm weakens after leaving at least 7 dead|date=March 15, 2017|website=fox6now.com|access-date=March 16, 2017}}
=Other areas=
== Midwestern U.S. ==
The first phase of the storm hit the Midwest on March 13, causing up to {{Convert|15|in|cm}} of snow in some areas.{{Cite web|url=http://www.newsday.com/news/nation/snow-in-midwest-big-storm-aims-for-east-1.13249934|title=Snow in midwest, big storm aims for east|website=Newsday|access-date=March 13, 2017}} Two deaths were reported in Wisconsin.{{Cite news|url=https://weather.com/storms/winter/news/winter-storm-stella-plains-midwest-impacts|title=Winter Storm Stella Batters Plains, Midwest; At Least 2 Dead in Wisconsin|work=The Weather Channel|access-date=March 20, 2017|language=en-US}}
== Southern U.S. ==
Multiple states ended up getting dustings of snow on March 12.{{Cite news|url=http://www.wral.com/latest-light-snow-moves-toward-triangle-no-major-impacts-expected/16576645/|title=Light snow falls across central NC, but doesn't stick to roads :: WRAL.com|last=WRAL|date=March 12, 2017|work=WRAL.com|access-date=March 19, 2017|language=en}}
=Snowfall totals=
| class="wikitable"
|+ Highest observed snow totals from each reported province !Province !Town !Amount |
| {{Flag|Ontario}}
|{{Convert|45|cm|in|order=flip}} |
| {{Flag|Quebec}}
|{{Convert|75|cm|in|order=flip}} |
| {{Flag|New Brunswick}}
|{{Convert|30|cm|in|order=flip}} |
| colspan="3" |{{Center|Sources:{{Cite web|url=https://weather.gc.ca/warnings/weathersummaries_e.html|title=Weather Summaries – Environment Canada|last=Canada|first=Environment|website=weather.gc.ca|date=August 6, 2013 |language=en|access-date=March 16, 2017}}}} |
Naming
{{See also|Winter storm naming in the United States}}
The storm has received several different unofficial names from different media outlets. The Weather Channel, which names significant winter storms that have disruptive impacts on major cities, assigned the name Stella to the winter storm.{{Cite news|url=https://weather.com/storms/winter/news/winter-storm-stella-northeast-blizzard-warning-noreaster-snow-forecast-march-2017|title=Blizzard Warnings Expanded to Cover Parts of 8 States as Winter Storm Stella Gears Up to Deliver More Than a Foot of Snow to a Widespread Swath of the Northeast|work=The Weather Channel|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/capital-weather-gang/wp/2017/03/13/major-and-messy-winter-storm-bears-down-on-washington-what-to-expect-and-answers-to-frequent-questions/|title=Winter storm warning in Washington: What to expect and answers to frequent questions|last1=Samenow|first1=Jason|date=March 13, 2017|newspaper=The Washington Post|access-date=March 14, 2017|last2=Samenow|first2=Jason|language=en-US|issn=0190-8286}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/weather/2017/03/13/winter-storm-stella-weather-bomb-bombogenesis/99118710/|title=Is Stella a weather bomb?|work=USA TODAY|access-date=March 14, 2017|language=en}} Connecticut based WFSB dubbed the storm Blizzard Eugene.{{cite web|url=http://www.wfsb.com/story/34725379/winter-storm-eugene-comes-Tuesday|title=Blizzard Eugene, in less than 24 hours!|publisher=www.wfsb.com|date=March 14, 2017|access-date=March 14, 2017}}{{cite web|url=https://mic.com/articles/171000/winter-storm-stella-or-eugene-why-does-the-blizzard-have-two-names#.VkVBY29N2|title=Winter Storm Stella or Eugene: Why does the blizzard have two names?|publisher=Mic (media company)|author=Marie Solis|date=March 13, 2017|access-date=March 14, 2017}} The National Weather Service has stated though that, unlike hurricanes, it does not name winter storms.{{cite web | last=Peña | first=Mark | title=who uses them, and who doesn't? | website=KXAN Austin | date=February 1, 2022 | url=https://www.kxan.com/weather/weather-blog/winter-storm-names-who-uses-them-and-who-doesnt/amp/ | access-date=August 3, 2024}} The practice of winter storm naming remains controversial in the United States.
Cold wave
After the storm, a burst of Arctic air swept through the United States. On March 15, record low temperatures were matched or broken in Waterloo, Iowa ({{convert|-5|F|C}}), Cedar Rapids, Iowa ({{convert|2|F|C}}) and Memphis, Tennessee ({{convert|25|F|C}}). On March 16, records were matched or broken at Jacksonville, Florida ({{convert|28|F|C}}), Melbourne, Florida ({{convert|39|F|C}}), Macon, Georgia ({{convert|26|F|C}}), Florence, South Carolina ({{convert|20|F|C}}), and Charleston, South Carolina ({{convert|24|F|C}}).{{cite web | title=Record Cold and Record Warmth Divided the Nation in Mid-March (RECAP) | website=The Weather Channel | date=March 16, 2017 | url=https://weather.com/forecast/national/news/arctic-cold-northeast-midwest-warm-southwest-early-march | access-date=August 3, 2024}} This freeze in the Southeast destroyed numerous crops, causing at least $1 billion in agricultural losses.{{cite web | last=Crouch | first=Jake | title=Bad news for Southeast peaches: Something freezing this way came | website=NOAA Climate.gov | date=May 31, 2017 | url=https://www.climate.gov/news-features/blogs/beyond-data/bad-news-southeast-peaches-something-freezing-way-came | access-date=August 3, 2024}}
See also
{{Portal|Canada|United States|Weather}}
- List of Regional Snowfall Index Category 4 winter storms
- 1993 Storm of the Century – struck around the same time, and just as heavy
- Early February 2013 North American blizzard – had a very similar origin from the merger of two lows into one off the East Coast
- January 2015 North American blizzard – similar storm that had origins from an Alberta clipper, and was criticized for less snowfall totals in New York City as well when forecasts predicted much more
- Mid-December 2020 nor'easter – nor'easter that affected similar areas with similar amounts of snow
{{clear}}
References
{{Reflist|30em}}
External links
- {{Commons category inline|March 2017 nor'easter}}
- {{Commons category inline|March 2017 North American blizzard}}
{{United States winter storms}}
Category:2016–17 North American winter
Category:2017 in Massachusetts
Category:2017 in New York (state)
Category:2017 in Washington, D.C.