Severe Weather Strikes Southern New England – Updates from WHDH 7News
BOSTON (WHDH) – Severe weather wreaked havoc in southern New England on Monday afternoon, with the National Weather Service issuing a series of severe thunderstorm warnings. Pop-up thunderstorms moved through parts of the region, prompting officials to issue a broader severe thunderstorm watch encompassing all of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, as well as parts of New Hampshire and New York.
The storms brought hail, strong winds, and heavy rainfall to the area, causing flooding in several communities. The severe thunderstorm watch went into effect at 1 p.m. and remained in place until 7 p.m., warning of scattered hail, gusts up to 65 miles per hour, and frequent lightning. Specific severe thunderstorm warnings for Worcester County, southern New Hampshire, the South Coast, and Cape Cod expired by 5 p.m.
In addition to the severe thunderstorm warnings, the National Weather Service also issued flash flood warnings in parts of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. The region began to see drier weather around 9 p.m., bringing some relief to the affected areas.
While tornados were not expected during Monday’s storms, residents reported seeing hail in various locations, including Marion, Dennis, Rochester, Mattapoisett, Fairhaven, West Dennis, and Buzzards Bay. The Bourne Police Department shared updates on social media, describing the storms as “really interesting” and noting the presence of lightning, heavy rains, and large hail in the area.
Authorities in Bourne were faced with heavy flooding in multiple locations, prompting warnings for drivers to exercise caution on the roads. Parts of Route 6 in Bourne were flooded, and the Bourne Rotary was also inundated, with one photo showing a car stuck in the water. Reports of flooding in Dennis and videos of vehicles navigating through deep water in Falmouth underscored the severity of the weather conditions.
Photos captured lightning strikes in New Bedford, while firefighters in Sandwich responded to a fire caused by a lightning strike. Fortunately, the family and their dog were able to escape safely. As the storms subsided, attention turned to the forecast for the following days, with calmer weather expected on Tuesday before the possibility of more storms on Wednesday.
Stay tuned to 7NEWS for the latest updates on severe weather in the region.
Impact on Communities
The severe weather that swept through southern New England on Monday left a trail of destruction in its wake, impacting communities across Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. From flooded streets to damaged property, residents faced challenges brought on by the intense thunderstorms.
In Bourne, authorities scrambled to address the aftermath of the storms, with reports of heavy flooding in multiple locations around town. Drivers navigated through waterlogged streets, with parts of Route 6 and the Bourne Rotary experiencing significant flooding. The Bourne Police Department and Fire/Rescue & Emergency Service urged caution on the roads, highlighting the dangers posed by the weather conditions.
In other areas such as Dennis and Falmouth, residents grappled with flooding and the risk of lightning strikes. Videos shared on social media captured the extent of the damage, with vehicles struggling to traverse waterlogged roads. The swift response of emergency services personnel helped mitigate the impact of the storms, but the challenges posed by severe weather served as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and community resilience.
Response and Recovery Efforts
In the aftermath of the severe weather event, communities mobilized response and recovery efforts to address the damage caused by the thunderstorms. Emergency services personnel worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of residents and provide assistance to those affected by the inclement weather.
The Bourne Police Department and Fire/Rescue & Emergency Service coordinated efforts to manage flooding, clear debris, and respond to emergencies in the wake of the storms. Residents were advised to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines to prevent further incidents and ensure their well-being.
Throughout the region, local authorities collaborated with utility companies, transportation agencies, and other stakeholders to assess the impact of the severe weather and implement measures to restore normalcy. Cleanup crews worked to clear debris, repair infrastructure, and support residents in need of assistance.
As communities began the recovery process, the focus shifted to preparing for potential future weather events and enhancing resilience to mitigate the impact of severe storms. Public awareness campaigns, emergency drills, and community engagement initiatives aimed to strengthen preparedness and foster a culture of safety among residents.
Looking Ahead
As southern New England recovers from the severe weather that struck on Monday, attention turns to the forecast for the coming days. While Tuesday is expected to bring calmer weather, the possibility of more storms looms on the horizon.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed, remain vigilant, and take proactive measures to ensure their safety in the event of severe weather. By staying connected to local news sources, monitoring weather updates, and following guidance from authorities, individuals can prepare for potential storms and minimize the impact on their communities.
As the region braces for the challenges of unpredictable weather patterns, the resilience and resourcefulness of residents will be crucial in navigating the uncertainty of severe weather events. By working together, supporting one another, and prioritizing safety, communities can weather the storm and emerge stronger in the face of adversity.
