Massachusetts – A quiet summer day will give way to a much more active weather pattern Tuesday as another storm system approaches New England. By late afternoon, skies could darken quickly, with strong thunderstorms developing just in time for the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston, scattered severe thunderstorms are possible from 4 p.m. Tuesday through 4 a.m. Wednesday. While not every community will experience severe weather, any storm that develops could strengthen rapidly as it moves across southern New England.
The primary threat is localized damaging wind gusts, capable of bringing down tree limbs and causing isolated power outages. Torrential rainfall may also produce street flooding, especially in urban areas where drainage systems can become overwhelmed in a short period. Forecasters also note a low risk for isolated hail and a brief tornado, although damaging winds remain the greatest concern.
A Level 2 of 5 Slight Risk covers western and central Massachusetts, while a Level 1 Marginal Risk extends eastward through the Boston metro, Worcester, Providence, and much of eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Communities including Springfield, Worcester, Boston, Lowell, Fitchburg, and Providence should monitor forecast updates throughout Tuesday.
Travel on Interstates 90, 91, 93, 95, and Route 128 could become hazardous during the evening commute as heavy rain reduces visibility and ponding develops on roadways. Secure outdoor furniture, charge mobile devices, and ensure emergency alerts are enabled before storms arrive.
Storms are expected to gradually move offshore by early Wednesday morning, though additional watches or warnings could be issued Tuesday as confidence in storm development increases.
