Nor'easter May Affect Wednesday Commute

A nor'easter will kick up winds and rain in the region today, with sleet and snow likely west of Boston and in the higher elevations.

According to WHDH meteorologist Chris Lambert, the precipitation should start between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., which would impact the afternoon commute.

Atmospheric conditions may convert falling rain into snow in the Boston area (including Peabody), though that would mean merely a dusting on grass before quickly melting away. The actual rain/snow line is harder to predict.

"I don't expect much, if any accumulation in the Boston area, maybe a slushy coating around Route 128 on grassy surfaces as rain and snow battle it out for a few hours in the early evening," wrote Lambert on the 7 Weather Blog. "The snow will lose that battle to rain, although that process takes longer outside 495."

The National Weather Service has issued wind and coastal flood advisories ahead of the storm, calling for sustained winds of 20-25 mph and gusts of 50 mph. While not as strong as the winds from Sandy, the gusts are enough to cause damage.

The flood advisory is in effect until 8 p.m. and the wind advisory is in effect until 6 a.m. Thursday.