Key Highlights
- The winter storm caused widespread disruptions across Martha’s Vineyard.
- Vineyard schools and several businesses announced closures on Monday due to the weather.
- Transportation services, including ferry lines, experienced cancellations and delays.
- Healthcare facilities and warming centers are preparing for potential long-term impacts.
Winter Storm Brings Island-wide Disruption on Martha’s Vineyard
The winter storm that hit Martha’s Vineyard on Sunday has caused significant disruptions across the island, affecting services and businesses. Emergency officials have provided resources to help residents navigate through the storm.
Business Closures and Service Delays
Vineyard schools announced they would be closed on Monday as a result of the severe weather conditions. Additionally, various local businesses, such as Rockfish in Edgartown and Waterside Market in Vineyard Haven, decided to close their doors early for the day due to the inclement weather.
Some businesses, like Morning Glory Farm in Edgartown and Martha’s Vineyard Bank, already announced they would remain closed on Monday. Notably, the Mobil gas station in Edgartown will stay open until 10 pm to provide fuel, food, and coffee for snow plow drivers who need supplies.
Transportation Challenges
The winter storm has significantly impacted transportation services across the island. The Vineyard Transit Authority canceled multiple bus routes early on Sunday evening, with delays and cancellations expected for Monday as well. The Steamship Authority also canceled trips beginning Sunday evening due to the severe weather conditions.
Its reservation office in Mashpee was closed early at 1 pm.
The ferry line’s reservation offices will remain closed on Monday, along with its administrative offices in Falmouth. However, travelers are advised to make or change reservations online if possible and to check trip statuses on the Steamship Authority website for updates.
Healthcare Preparations
Island Health Care announced it would be closed on Monday due to the storm. The facility said its staff would contact patients to reschedule appointments and encouraged people with medical emergencies to call 911 or visit the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital Emergency Department.
In preparation for potential long-term impacts, the Dukes County Emergency Management Association recommended that residents check their heating systems and ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries. They also advised limiting time outdoors during extreme cold and dressing in warm layers to protect against the harsh weather conditions.
Emergency Warming Centers
The following locations will serve as warming centers from Monday through Thursday:
- Monday, January 26: First Congregational Church of West Tisbury (1051 State Road, West Tisbury) – 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday, January 27: The Federated Church (45 South Summer Street, Edgartown) – 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Wednesday, January 28 & Thursday, January 29: The Red House Peer Recovery Center (12 Beach Street, Vineyard Haven) – 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Residents are advised to plan ahead for potential travel impacts Sunday into Monday and avoid unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions. State officials recommend clearing snow and ice from vehicle windows, lights, hood, and roof before heading out on the roads.
“Never use a generator indoors, not even in an open garage,” state officials warned. “Point the exhaust away from doors and windows. Turn the generator off and wait for it to cool before you refuel it. Plug appliances in using outdoor-rated extension cords.”
The state also recommends checking exhaust vents of appliances to ensure they are not obstructed by snow or ice.
