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Record Snowfall Hits Merrimack Valley, Disrupting Region

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/2 .. all-hits-merrimack-valley-disrupting-region.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, March 22nd 2026 at 11:29 GMT by Eagle-Tribune
      Locale: UNITED STATES

MERRIMACK VALLEY - The Merrimack Valley is slowly digging out after a ferocious snowstorm slammed the region on Sunday, March 22nd, 2026, delivering record-breaking snowfall totals and prompting widespread closures and travel bans. While residents largely adhered to warnings to stay home, the storm's impact extends beyond initial inconvenience, posing ongoing challenges to infrastructure, emergency services, and local businesses.

The storm, quickly dubbed "Wicked Winter" by locals, unleashed a barrage of snow beginning early Sunday morning. Reports indicate snowfall rates peaking at 3 inches per hour in some areas, leading to unprecedented accumulation. Haverhill recorded 14 inches, Lawrence saw a staggering 16 inches, and Andover received 12 inches - numbers that exceed typical seasonal totals for a single event. Longtime resident Carol DiVito, a 50-year Haverhill resident, described the snowfall as the heaviest she'd witnessed in half a century, highlighting the storm's exceptional intensity.

Local authorities, including Haverhill Police Chief Robert Buzzell, expressed relief at the community's overwhelmingly positive response to stay-at-home advisories. The proactive messaging and public cooperation significantly limited the number of incidents, allowing emergency services to manage calls effectively. However, despite the reduced traffic volume, first responders still faced a considerable workload, attending to multiple car accidents - thankfully, mostly minor - and assisting stranded motorists. The potential for far greater disruption was undoubtedly mitigated by the public's responsible behavior.

The economic impact of the storm is becoming increasingly apparent. Businesses across the Merrimack Valley were forced to close their doors for the day, resulting in lost revenue and disrupted operations. Beyond the immediate loss of a day's trade, the storm will likely have a ripple effect, impacting supply chains and potentially delaying deliveries. Several scheduled community events were also canceled, disappointing organizers and attendees. The full economic toll won't be known for some time, but early estimates suggest a significant hit to the local economy.

While the heavy snowfall has ceased, the challenges continue. Temperatures remained frigid overnight, plummeting to a low of 15 degrees Fahrenheit, causing widespread ice formation. This creates dangerous conditions for pedestrians and drivers, and poses a threat to aging infrastructure. Local public works departments are working tirelessly to clear roads, but the sheer volume of snow and the subsequent freezing temperatures are making the task arduous. Priority is being given to clearing main thoroughfares and access routes for emergency vehicles, but many side streets remain impassable.

The weight of the snow also raises concerns about structural integrity. Building officials are advising residents to regularly clear snow from roofs, particularly those with flat or low-sloped designs, to prevent potential collapses. Utility companies are monitoring power lines for potential strain from accumulated ice and snow, and residents are urged to report any downed lines immediately. The storm also triggered a surge in carbon monoxide poisoning calls, as residents attempted to heat their homes using alternative methods, highlighting the need for caution and proper ventilation.

Looking ahead, meteorologists are forecasting a return to more seasonable temperatures later this week, which should aid in the melting process. However, the potential for flooding as the snow melts remains a concern. Residents in low-lying areas are advised to monitor conditions closely and take preventative measures to protect their property. The Merrimack Valley Regional Emergency Planning Committee is meeting tomorrow to assess the long-term impacts of the storm and develop strategies for future preparedness. The "Wicked Winter" storm serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community cooperation in the face of adversity.