Worcester, MA – Residents across interior southern New England should brace for dangerous storms Thursday afternoon, with tornado potential and damaging winds possible beginning at 4 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston, scattered severe thunderstorms are expected between 4–10 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, mainly impacting inland Massachusetts, northern Connecticut, and northwest Rhode Island. The greatest risk (Level 2 out of 5) is concentrated in areas including Springfield, Worcester, Greenfield, and Keene, NH. Wind gusts over 60 mph are the primary threat, but large hail, localized street flooding, and a brief tornado cannot be ruled out.
Cities such as Pittsfield, Northampton, and Framingham may experience sudden downpours and isolated power outages. Travel could become hazardous on I-91, I-84, and Route 2 during the evening commute. Officials urge residents to secure loose outdoor items, charge electronics, and avoid unnecessary travel during storm hours.
This is the region’s first elevated tornado threat of the summer season. While most coastal areas like Boston, Providence, and New Haven remain at lower risk (Level 1), inland areas face a higher probability of rotating storms.
Warnings remain possible through 10 p.m. Thursday, with additional advisories likely if storm development intensifies.
