Is the nor’easter coming to Boston? Here’s what we know

New Englanders may need to brace for wind this weekend as a nor’easter is expected to hit the coastal region from Massachusetts to Maryland. For cities close to the coast like Boston, this could result in particularly vigorous wind and rain over the course of Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

This is a common time of year for nor’easters because cold air streams coming out of Canada move into the East Coast and towards the Atlantic Ocean, where warm air from the Gulf of Mexico begins to move northward.

Winds will pick up Thursday night, March 1st, in Boston, reaching up to 70 miles per hour over Cape Cod. With winds this strong, there’s the risk of trees and power lines coming down, so it’s advised that everyone stay indoors if possible.

The winds will start to abate late Friday, March 2nd, although Saturday, March 3rd will still be breezy, since the storm is taking a slow path just south of New England. This means parts of Boston could see anywhere from one to three inches of rain with heavy streams that could result in moderate street and basement flooding.

If you suspect that your basement might flood, you may want to check your sump pump today. You can also assemble an emergency kit as instructed by the Red Cross containing water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, and essential medicine.

Although Massachusetts residents can expect an unpleasant few days, sunshine is expected to return Sunday, though temperatures will be cool throughout early next week.