Heavy rain and gusty winds hit Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut
A late-season Nor’easter is taking aim at Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, promising heavy rain, gusty winds, and flooding concerns through Thursday night. The National Weather Service has issued a detailed forecast warning of coastal impacts, with the most intense conditions expected Thursday into early Friday.
Rainfall and flooding outlook
Between 1 and 2 inches of rain is expected across the region, with localized pockets reaching up to 3 inches. This could cause urban and poor-drainage street flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Residents in coastal and inland communities should remain aware of changing conditions.
Wind forecast and coastal impacts
Strong northeast winds will develop, with gusts reaching 40 to 50 mph along the coastline, particularly near Cape Cod, Buzzards Bay, and Narragansett Bay. These winds may cause downed branches, power outages, and rough surf conditions.
Forecast timeline by day
Tonight (Wednesday night): Expect patchy drizzle after 11 p.m., with mostly cloudy skies and a low around 47°F (8°C). Winds from the northeast at 7 to 9 mph.
Wednesday: Cloudy with drizzle between late morning and mid-afternoon. High temperatures near 57°F (14°C). Winds increasing from the northeast at around 11 mph.
Wednesday night: A 40% chance of rain after 8 p.m., with a low near 47°F (8°C). Winds turning easterly at 9 to 11 mph.
Thursday: Heavy rain and patchy morning fog. Expect a high near 52°F (11°C). East winds 14 to 17 mph, with gusts up to 37 mph. Rainfall totals could reach 1 to 2 inches.
Thursday night: Steady rain continues, mainly before 4 a.m., with a low around 47°F (8°C). Winds from the northeast at 10 to 13 mph, gusting to 32 mph.
Friday: Chance of lingering showers through mid-afternoon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 59°F (15°C). Winds turning northwest at 10 mph, gusting to 21 mph.
Friday night: More isolated showers possible after 8 p.m., mostly cloudy, with a low near 47°F (8°C). Winds becoming southwest around 6 mph.
Saturday: A 30% chance of showers early in the day, then partly sunny with a high near 63°F (17°C). Winds from the west at 6 to 10 mph.
Impact on Cape Cod vacations
Travelers heading to Cape Cod should expect disrupted plans, especially Thursday when wind gusts and torrential rain will make outdoor activities difficult. Coastal areas from Provincetown to Falmouth may experience minor flooding and hazardous beach conditions.
Stay alert to updated forecasts as this Nor’easter develops.
