Boston, Mass. – Residents across Massachusetts and northern Connecticut should prepare for the potential of strong to severe thunderstorms Saturday afternoon and night as an approaching weather system brings the risk of damaging winds, torrential rainfall and isolated tornadoes. The greatest threat begins after 4 p.m. and is expected to continue well into the overnight hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut face a Level 2 of 5 (Slight Risk) for severe thunderstorms, while much of eastern Massachusetts, including the Boston metro, remains under a Level 1 of 5 (Marginal Risk).
The primary hazard will be damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, which could down trees, damage power lines and cause scattered power outages. Storms may also produce hail up to 1 inch in diameter, torrential rainfall capable of causing localized street flooding and dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning. While the tornado threat remains low, forecasters say one or two tornadoes cannot be ruled out, especially across western Massachusetts.
Communities including Springfield, Greenfield, Amherst, Worcester, Hartford, Putnam, Boston, Providence and surrounding areas should monitor forecasts closely as storms develop. Heavy rain could create hazardous travel conditions on Interstates 90, 91, 84 and 95, particularly during the evening.
Residents should have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, secure loose outdoor items and be prepared to move indoors quickly if severe thunderstorms approach. The National Weather Service says additional watches and warnings may be issued Saturday as confidence increases in the timing and intensity of the storms.
