BOSTON, Mass. – The National Weather Service in Boston/Norton has issued a Storm Watch for nearly all southern New England marine zones, effective Sunday afternoon through Monday evening, as a powerful coastal system develops offshore. The watch replaces previous Small Craft Advisories and signals a shift toward storm-force conditions across the region’s waters.
Forecasters warn of northeast winds of 30–45 knots with gusts up to 50 knots, with the strongest winds expected across Massachusetts Bay, Cape Cod Bay, Nantucket and Vineyard Sounds, Buzzards Bay, Rhode Island Sound, Block Island Sound, and the outer coastal waters south of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Seas are forecast to build dramatically—ranging from 9 to 19 feet, with the highest waves on the outer Cape and south coastal zones.
These conditions could capsize small vessels, damage moored boats, and reduce visibility to near zero in blowing spray. Mariners are urged to remain in port, double-check moorings, and secure loose gear before Saturday evening, as deteriorating seas may arrive faster than expected. Ferry routes from Woods Hole, Hyannis, New Bedford, and Martha’s Vineyard/Nantucket could face significant delays or cancellations due to high surf and crosswinds.
Onshore, coastal impacts will include beach erosion, strong rip currents, and minor flooding near high tide. Coastal residents should move items off docks and avoid shoreline travel during peak winds Sunday night.
Conditions will slowly improve late Monday as the system pulls east, but large swells and dangerous surf are likely to persist into Tuesday morning. Mariners and coastal residents should stay tuned for upgraded Storm Warnings or Gale Warnings as the weekend approaches.
