The sky darkens as severe thunderstorms approach, affecting Massachusetts residents.
Severe thunderstorms struck Massachusetts on Thursday night, resulting in nearly 49,000 power outages just before the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Areas like Lakeville and Fall River were hit hardest, with reports of downed trees and flooding complicating cleanup efforts. As power restoration efforts are underway, travelers are advised to plan ahead due to anticipated traffic disruptions. Authorities emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness as the holiday approaches amidst summer weather risks.
Massachusetts — Severe thunderstorms swept across Massachusetts on Thursday night, leaving nearly 49,000 residents without power as they approach the Fourth of July holiday weekend. As of 9:30 p.m. Thursday, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency reported that 48,836 residents were affected by outages. Within the hour, this figure decreased to 44,425 as some areas began to restore power.
The hardest-hit regions were southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod, though some outages extended into the Boston area. Communities significantly impacted include Lakeville, Fall River, Marion, Bourne, Freetown, Plymouth, Westport, Dartmouth, Falmouth, Sandwich, Barnstable, Dennis, Swansea, Somerset, and Acushnet. Lakeville experienced a complete power outage at one stage, while Rochester had a similar situation but has gradually restored some electricity.
Alongside power outages, the severe weather brought reports of flooding and downed trees across Rhode Island, highlighting the extensive impact of the storms. Fall River experienced significant disruptions, with downed trees and power lines blocking roads, as well as flooding that caused bricks to fall from a building, further endangering residents and complicating cleanup efforts.
The timing of these thunderstorms is particularly concerning, as numerous travelers are expected to be on the move for the Fourth of July holiday. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has issued advisories urging residents to plan accordingly for increased traffic volumes during this busy travel time. This recommendation comes in light of widespread disruptions caused by the storms, which could affect travel conditions.
Restoration efforts are currently underway, although the situation remains dynamic, with more updates anticipated as progress continues. The collaboration among local agencies and utility companies will be key to restoring power and ensuring safety for residents as the holiday approaches.
The occurrence of severe thunderstorms in the summer months is not uncommon in Massachusetts; however, the intensity and scope of this storm have raised awareness about the vulnerability of local infrastructure and the importance of emergency preparedness. As the region braces for high travel volumes in conjunction with severe weather risks, community leaders and emergency personnel are working closely to respond to the needs of affected residents swiftly.
As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, stay updated on weather forecasts, and heed the advice of authorities regarding travel and safety. The storms serve as a reminder of the potential risks associated with summer weather patterns, and the need for preparedness is critical as families plan for holiday celebrations.
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