In a breaking news report by CNN on Thursday it was reported that two ferocious storm systems will hit the Northeast overnight and drop as much as three feet of snow in Boston, MA, who could see snowfall of up to 2 to 3 inches per hour.
Meteologists are already making comparisons of this storm to the "Great Blizzard" of 1978 that left thousands stranded and killed 17 people over three days from January 25 through January 27.
CNN Meteorologist Chad Myers said the two ferocious storm systems are expected to converge overnight across the Northeast and create what could be a historic blizzard for parts of the region.
"If you are on the highway and you are stuck, you are putting yourself in danger," Myers said.
Massachusetts Emergency Management officials are salting roadways in preparation for the incoming storm.
"Travel may become nearly impossible with blowing/drifting snow and near zero visibility during the height of the storm (Friday afternoon into Saturday morning)," the agency said in a statement. "Motorized vehicles are asked to stay off the roads if they can during the storm to allow snow plows to clear the roads."
At least 600 snow removers are being manned by municipal workers and contractors in Boston as Mayor Thomas M. Menino is warning residents to use public transportation calling the blizzard, "very serious."
"We are hearty New Englanders and used to these kinds of storms, but I also want to remind people to use common sense and stay off the streets," Menino said.
The storms are slamming a region already affected by Superstorm Sandy which according to CNN Meteorologist Sarah Dillingham will cause more flooding.
"We expect snow and then rain, and severe coastal flooding," Dillingham said.
She went on to say tides are expected to rise from between three to five feet due to 75 mph gusts along Cape Cod and 55 mph in the Long Island Sound.
Meanwhile residents have been seen in stores today stocking up with emergency supplies.
"They're coming in buying shovels, ice melts and sleds," said Atton Shipman, who works at Back Bay Hardware in Boston.
Video - Weather Channel update on historic blizzard slamming northeast coast.
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