Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and Watches Impacting Southern New England
Officials with the National Weather Service issued a series of severe thunderstorm warnings on Monday afternoon as pop-up thunderstorms made their way through parts of southern New England. The weather service also issued a broader severe thunderstorm watch encompassing all of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, as well as parts of New Hampshire and New York.
The severe thunderstorm watch took effect at 1 p.m. and is scheduled to remain in effect until 7 p.m. It warns of scattered hail, scattered gusts up to 65 miles-per-hour, and frequent lightning. More specific severe thunderstorm warnings had expired by 5 p.m. but included communities in Worcester County, southern New Hampshire, the South Coast, and Cape Cod.
By mid-afternoon, storms were dropping hail across the South Coast and Cape Cod while causing flooding in several communities. The National Weather Service separately issued a series of flash flood warnings in parts of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
Most of the region will likely see drier weather by 9 p.m. Though tornados were not expected in Monday’s storms, photos and videos shared showed hail in Marion and in other spots from Dennis to Rochester, Massachusetts.
Bourne Police Department posted on Facebook near 2 p.m., saying, “Today just got really interesting.” They noted that rain inundated the area with lightning, torrential rains, and hail. Authorities were dealing with heavy flooding in multiple locations around town, urging drivers to use caution.
Bourne Fire/Rescue & Emergency Service also urged drivers to be careful on area roads, mentioning that parts of Route 6 in Bourne were flooded out. The Bourne Rotary was flooded near 1:30 p.m., with one photo showing a car apparently stuck in the water.
Reports of flooding in Dennis and a video from Falmouth showed multiple vehicles driving through deep water after stormy weather. Despite the challenging conditions, officials reassured the public that Tuesday was expected to be calmer, with the possibility of storms returning on Wednesday.
For the latest updates on severe weather, stay tuned to 7NEWS on-air and online.
Impacts of Severe Thunderstorms
Severe thunderstorms can bring a range of hazards, including strong winds, hail, lightning, and flash flooding. These storms can pose significant risks to communities, causing damage to property and infrastructure, as well as putting lives in danger.
The National Weather Service issues warnings and watches to alert the public to the potential dangers of severe weather events. It is essential for residents to heed these warnings and take necessary precautions to stay safe during severe thunderstorms.
In the case of the recent storms in southern New England, authorities were quick to respond to reports of flooding and other storm-related incidents. Police and emergency services worked to ensure the safety of residents and motorists in the affected areas, providing assistance and guidance where needed.
Preparedness and Safety Tips
As severe weather events become more common, it is crucial for individuals and communities to be prepared and informed about how to stay safe during storms. Here are some tips to help you stay safe during severe thunderstorms:
1. Stay informed: Monitor weather forecasts and alerts from reliable sources, such as the National Weather Service or local news outlets. Be aware of any warnings or watches issued for your area and take appropriate action.
2. Seek shelter: If you hear thunder or see lightning, seek shelter indoors immediately. Stay away from windows, doors, and electrical appliances, and avoid using water during a storm.
3. Avoid flooded areas: Do not attempt to drive or walk through flooded streets or areas. Floodwaters can be deeper than they appear and may hide hazards such as debris or downed power lines.
4. Stay connected: Keep your phone charged and have a battery-powered radio on hand to receive updates in case of power outages. Make sure you have emergency supplies, such as food, water, and medications, readily available.
5. Check on neighbors: During severe weather events, check on neighbors, especially those who may be vulnerable or in need of assistance. Offer help and support where you can.
By following these safety tips and staying informed, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during severe thunderstorms and other weather emergencies.
Conclusion
Severe thunderstorms can have significant impacts on communities, causing damage and disruption to daily life. By staying informed, prepared, and taking necessary precautions, individuals can minimize the risks associated with severe weather events.
It is essential for authorities, emergency services, and residents to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all members of the community. Through effective communication, rapid response, and proactive measures, we can mitigate the effects of severe thunderstorms and other natural disasters.
As we continue to face the challenges of a changing climate, it is more important than ever to prioritize resilience, preparedness, and safety in the face of severe weather events. By working together and staying vigilant, we can build stronger, more resilient communities that are better equipped to handle the challenges of severe weather and other emergencies.
