Warmer weather is expected for Massachusetts beginning Thursday, but it will also bring heavy rain and wind before another blast of cold air arrives over the weekend.
The National Weather Service says, “Quite a change is in store over the next few days as temperatures rise back into the 50s on Friday!” This will be accompanied by gusty winds and heavy rains.
The news comes after much of the state experienced its first big snowfall of the season over the weekend, with up to six inches in various spots.
Massachusetts residents are in for a windy few days beginning Thursday, with high winds anticipated to morph into a storm overnight. Rain will begin to fall in Western Massachusetts around 10 p.m., moving over to Cape Cod and the Islands by early Friday morning.
Forecasters are primarily concerned about the storm’s powerful wind gusts, predicted to reach 40 to 50 mph starting Thursday night. These gusts can inflict moderate damage, such as blowing roof tiles and tearing off tree branches.
In addition to gusts, the storm will bring higher temperatures, reaching the upper 50s. Meanwhile, those violent wind gusts are forecast to reach 60 mph on Friday.
Such strong winds may make driving automobiles more dangerous than usual, particularly high-profile models, so please be aware of the risks if you intend to travel and proceed with caution.
“Dangerous winds might knock down trees and electrical lines. Power outages are possible. Travel may be difficult, particularly for high-profile vehicles,” the NWS warns.
Downpours are expected throughout the day on Friday, with a danger of coastal flooding, particularly along the southern coastline between 6 and 8 a.m.
Experts will be watching to see how the storm moves out on Friday night, as another cold front is forecast to hit the state over the weekend.
Meanwhile, mariners in Massachusetts coastal waters, Boston Harbor, Rhode Island coastal waters, and Narragansett Bay are advised to exercise caution, as high wind gusts are expected to pose problems until Wednesday evening.
“Mariners should adjust their plans to avoid these hazardous situations.” Remain in port, seek safe harbor, change course, and/or secure the vessel for hazardous conditions,” advises the NWS.
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