BOSTON, Mass. – Mariners across Massachusetts and Rhode Island are urged to stay in port tonight as a powerful coastal storm drives winds up to 50 mph and waves topping 16 feet through early Saturday. The National Weather Service in Boston issued a Storm Warning Thursday afternoon for all coastal waters from Ipswich Bay to Block Island.
According to the NWS Boston/Norton office, west winds of 25 to 35 knots with stronger gusts will create hazardous seas, especially around Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket. Coastal waters from Provincetown to Chatham and south toward Montauk, New York, are under the same warning until 5 a.m. Saturday.
Mariners are advised to secure vessels, adjust routes, or delay departures as conditions may cause small and mid-sized boats to capsize. The National Marine Sanctuary near Stellwagen Bank is expected to see some of the roughest surf overnight.
The storm is expected to ease by daybreak Saturday as winds gradually subside. Additional marine advisories could follow if seas remain elevated through the weekend.
