Massachusetts points journey ban for South Coast throughout blizzard amid studies of deserted automobiles

Gov. Maura Healey has issued a journey ban for the South Coast of Massachusetts and Martha’s Vineyard Monday, efficient instantly, as the realm has been hit hardest by a blizzard.

Healey signed an government order banning non-essential motorcar journey in Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstable and Dukes counties, citing harmful highway situations.

Speeds on the Mass Pike have additionally been diminished to 40 mph.

“This is a serious storm, and there are dangerous road conditions out there, especially on the South Coast. We have reports of abandoned and stuck cars on the roads, and tow trucks are having difficulty getting to them,” Healey mentioned in a press release. “While this travel ban is limited to the South Coast, we urge everyone across the state to stay off the roads for your safety and for the safety of plow drivers and emergency officials who are trying to do their jobs. Thank you to everyone who has stayed home and to those who are doing this hard work during extremely challenging conditions.”

Healey declared a state of emergency on Sunday forward of the storm and activated 200 members of the Massachusetts National Guard. An extra 150 members have been activated on Monday. 

The governor mentioned the journey ban will assist help snow elimination operations within the area. MassDOT is redeploying gear to the South Coast to assist clear snow.

Several teams of individuals are exempt from the travel ban, together with emergency staff, sufferers touring to obtain pressing care, and people supporting operations to supply important providers.  

The highly effective storm knocked out energy to greater than 290,000 clients.