Severe Winter Storm to Impact Rochester: Residents Urged to Prepare

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Rochester and Strafford County, effective from Sunday at 1:00 PM until Monday at 7:00 PM.

 

Forecasts predict 12 to 18 inches of snow during this period, accompanied by periods of heavy snowfall that could lead to extremely dangerous travel conditions.

 

Residents are advised to limit travel during the storm's peak.

 

If travel is unavoidable, plan for slower roads and very low visibility.

 

In anticipation of the storm, the City of Rochester has announced that all city offices will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026.

 

Essential services will continue as scheduled.

 

The *** Willand Warming Center has been activated to provide shelter during the extreme cold.

 

It will be open continuously from Friday, January 23rd, through Monday, January 26th, at 9:00 AM.

 

Transportation to the center is available via scheduled van services.

 

Residents are encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbors and ensure they have adequate heating and supplies.

 

To stay informed about the latest weather updates and safety information, monitor local news outlets and official city communications.

 

For more details on the storm and its impact, visit the National Weather Service website or contact local authorities.

 

Stay safe and take necessary precautions during this severe winter weather event.

 

*** The Willand Warming Center is located at 30 Willand Drive in Somersworth, New Hampshire, 03801. It operates as an emergency, low-barrier overnight shelter during extreme cold weather (typically when temperatures are 28∘𝐹 or below) for the Tri-City area (Somersworth, Dover, and Rochester).