Forecasters are beginning to get a handle on what Massachusetts and Rhode Island can expect from the likely upcoming nor’easter.
According to the National Weather Service, a High Wind Watch has just been issued for portions of eastern, northeastern, and southeastern Massachusetts and northern and southern Rhode Island from Friday morning through Saturday evening.
North winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected with gusts up to 50 mph possible.
Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially
for high profile vehicles.
While models have not yet come into agreement, 2-4″ of rain across eastern Massachusetts is expected. However, this is spread out over 3 days. Thus, not expecting any flooding, other than nuisance type roadway ponding. The coastal/ocean storm will likely linger into Monday with wet impacts.
Ferry service has already been canceled at locations, so call ahead for possible service disruptions.
Serious beach erosion is expected with strong rip currents and high surf already beginning in southern New England.
The forecast:
Friday
A chance of rain, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 62. Breezy, with a north wind 18 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 39 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Friday Night
Rain likely. Cloudy, with a low around 53. Breezy, with a north wind around 22 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Saturday
Rain. High near 62. Breezy, with a north wind 21 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 39 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Saturday Night
Showers. Low around 53. Breezy, with a north wind 17 to 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.
Sunday
Showers. High near 62. Breezy, with a north wind 18 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Sunday Night
Showers likely, mainly before 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53. North wind 14 to 16 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Monday
A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 63. North wind 11 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.
