Good morning, Hopkinton! Welcome to the daily update we call Hopkinton Today — a quick recap of yesterday’s news, highlights of what’s on tap, and a photo of the day.

Official encourage preparation, limiting cold exposure as major snowstorm arrives

FILE PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

Town officials are warning residents to be prepared and take caution ahead of a significant winter storm and below-zero temperatures set to move into the region this weekend.

According to WCVB, a large winter storm is headed north into New England from the mid-Atlantic in the next few days and will cover the region in snow starting midday Sunday. Thursday forecasts had the storm trending more northward and likely to dump 1-2 feet of snow through most of Massachusetts. 

At the same time, an arctic air mass is moving into the region, bringing temperatures down significantly. Weather reports indicate single digit temperatures and wind chills making it feel 15-20 degrees below zero in some areas starting Friday.

Town departments have issued warnings and given advice to residents on how to prepare for the weather. The Hopkinton Police Department on Facebook shared tips and resources on how to stay warm and limit cold weather exposure.

The Water-Sewer Department warned residents to check their pipes to prevent them from freezing.

“Make sure there are no locations in your home where the water pipes are exposed to freezing temperatures,” advised Water-Sewer manager Jed Fenneuff. “Locations such as under a cellar window, along outside walls, or in closets, cabinets or under the stairs (in the case of split entry homes) are likely candidate locations for the cold air to collect and where pipes can freeze under these low temperatures.”

Hopkinton Fire Chief Gary Daugherty had additional recommendations. He noted that, given most of the anticipated snow will be “light and fluffy,” there is a reduced risk of power outages. 

Daugherty added that anyone using a generator should make sure it is running outside the home to avoid issues with carbon monoxide. Outside vents should be cleared as well to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

The HFD is focusing more on carbon monoxide issues thanks to a recent grant. The department was awarded $2,500 through the Enbridge Safe Communities Grant program. Funds will go toward purchasing and installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for Hopkinton residents in need.

For the arctic air, the fire chief advocated for layering up when outside and staying inside as much as possible to reduce exposure.

“If you can limit your time outside, do so accordingly,” said Daugherty.

— NICK SCHOFIELD

Latest News

A man injured by Marathon School Assistant Principal Eric Mitchell at a Plainville casino in 2024 reported he has suffered ongoing medical complications as a result of the incident.

A Hopkinton woman has been charged with bank fraud and identity theft for her alleged role in a scheme to steal $1.2 million from Massachusetts banks using stolen identities.

The Water-Sewer Advisory Board on Wednesday heard updates about the filter replacement for Well 6, the town’s main water supply, and the ongoing MWRA connection project.

This week’s Baypath Adoptable Animal is Betty, a quiet and affectionate senior dog looking for a peaceful, dog-free home in which to enjoy her golden years.

The latest Move in Style Athlete Spotlight shines on girls basketball junior Julia Chatten, whose presence, according to coach Mike Greco, “elevates our level of play in a way that doesn’t show up in statistics.”

Photo of the Day

Turkeys make their way across Hayden Rowe Street on a recent afternoon.

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR