Boston, MA – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a High Wind Watch for much of eastern Massachusetts, northern Connecticut, and Rhode Island, warning residents to prepare for dangerous wind gusts up to 60 mph beginning late Wednesday night and lasting into early Thursday. The storm system is expected to cause power outages, travel delays, and hazardous conditions across southern New England.
The Weather Event: Strong Winds and Rapidly Changing Conditions
Forecasters from the NWS Boston/Norton office said the incoming cold front will bring widespread gusts between 25 and 35 mph, with isolated bursts reaching 60 mph in exposed coastal and high-elevation areas. The strongest winds are expected after sunset Wednesday, peaking overnight before gradually easing by midday Thursday.
“We’re expecting damaging gusts that could knock down limbs or power lines,” forecasters said. “Residents should secure outdoor objects and remain cautious through early Thursday morning.”
Travel may become difficult, particularly along elevated highways such as I-93, Route 3, and the Mass Pike, where high-profile vehicles could struggle against crosswinds. The NWS also advised residents to prepare for localized power outages, downed tree limbs, and minor structural damage in exposed coastal communities.
Forecast Details: Timing and Areas of Greatest Impact
The High Wind Watch covers much of eastern and southeastern Massachusetts, northern Connecticut, and Rhode Island, including major cities such as Boston, Providence, Worcester, and Hartford.
According to meteorologists, wind gusts will strengthen after sunset Wednesday, continuing into the early hours of Thursday morning. Rain showers associated with the front will move eastward, followed by a rapid temperature drop and brisk westerly winds through midday Thursday.
By Thursday afternoon, skies will turn mostly sunny as the storm system exits into the Atlantic, but winds may still gust near 45 mph. Temperatures will remain cooler than normal, with highs around 50 to 52°F across Greater Boston and the South Shore.
Travel and Safety Impacts
Transportation officials are warning commuters and travelers to exercise caution overnight and during Thursday’s morning commute. Fallen trees and debris could cause road blockages, while air travel delays are possible at Boston Logan International Airport due to crosswinds.
Residents are urged to:
- Secure patio furniture, trash bins, and decorations.
- Charge phones and backup batteries in case of power loss.
- Avoid parking under trees or power lines.
- Stay indoors during the peak wind hours between midnight and 6 a.m. Thursday.
Local utility companies, including Eversource and National Grid, said crews are on standby to respond to potential outages and downed wires.
Extended Forecast: Calmer Weekend Ahead
Weather conditions are expected to improve by Thursday afternoon, with sunshine returning but temperatures staying chilly in the low 50s.
Friday will bring partly sunny skies and lighter winds, offering a calm break before the next system arrives. Another round of rain may move in by Saturday night into Sunday, bringing a November chill across southern New England.
Long-range forecasts suggest a possible Arctic blast could arrive early next week, marking the first significant cold snap of the season just before Veterans Day.
Five-Day Forecast for Boston, MA
- Wednesday: 59°/43° – Cloudy and breezy; gusts near 25 mph.
- Thursday: 51°/31° – Sunny but windy; gusts up to 50–60 mph.
- Friday: 56°/45° – Partly sunny, calmer winds.
- Saturday: 63°/44° – Rain likely; breezy in the evening.
- Sunday: 59°/42° – Mostly cloudy; cooler air returns.
Conclusion
With winds expected to reach damaging levels overnight, residents of Rhode Island and Massachusetts are urged to take precautions now. The strongest gusts are forecast between Wednesday evening and Thursday morning, followed by improving weather later in the day.
What are your thoughts on the upcoming storm? Have you experienced similar high-wind events in your area? Share your experiences in the comments below.
