Central Massachusetts, September 10, 2025
News Summary
In a rare weather event for the region, the National Weather Service confirmed five EF-1 tornadoes touched down in central Massachusetts. The tornadoes, with wind speeds between 86 and 110 mph, struck locations including Paxton, Holden, Berlin, and Stow. This marks the first confirmed tornado activity of the season after a quiet summer and signals a noteworthy shift in weather patterns for the area. Local residents are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing weather conditions and safety protocols.
Paxton, Massachusetts — Five EF-1 Tornadoes Confirmed in State After Severe Storms
Five tornadoes touched down in central Massachusetts late Saturday during a line of severe storms, according to crews from the National Weather Service in Boston. All five tornadoes were rated EF-1, indicating estimated wind speeds between 86 and 110 mph. Two touchdowns occurred in Paxton and one each in Holden, Berlin, and Stow.
Key facts
The National Weather Service completed field assessments that produced the EF-1 ratings for each touchdown. The storm reports mark the first confirmed tornadoes in the region this season after an unusually quiet summer with no earlier tornado reports. The region typically averages six to eight tornadoes per year.
Short-term weather and immediate outlook
After the severe storms, the week ahead is expected to trend toward cooler, more fall-like conditions. Temperatures in Boston are forecast to remain in the upper 60s to near 70 degrees, while the MetroWest area could see readings near the mid-70s. Overnight lows are expected to fall into the 40s and 50s tonight.
A chance of rain is forecast for tomorrow, primarily affecting communities south of Boston, including the Cape and the Islands. A brief warmup is expected on Thursday, with highs near the upper 70s in Boston and close to 80 degrees in MetroWest. Highs will retreat into the 60s to lower 70s by Friday, and average conditions are expected to persist through the weekend.
Fall and seasonal expectations
The National Weather Service projects mostly dry conditions for New England heading into autumn, with temperatures likely to be warmer than average for September, October, and November. Meteorologists are also predicting a drier-than-average fall for the region, which could contribute to moderate drought conditions across parts of the state and may affect the timing and vibrancy of fall foliage.
Other weather-related concerns
While Hurricane Erin is remaining hundreds of miles offshore, it is expected to produce large waves and choppy waters along New England’s coastline. Coastal users and mariners should be alert to rough surf conditions even though the storm will not make landfall in the region.
Context and seasonality
The five EF-1 tornadoes contrast with an otherwise quiet severe-weather season for the state. Historically, Massachusetts records an average of six to eight tornadoes per year. This late-summer event is the first confirmed tornado activity following an unusually calm summer period. Local authorities and weather officials will continue to review assessments and provide updates if new information about impacts or damage emerges.
Preparedness guidance
Residents in affected and nearby communities are advised to review local safety plans and stay informed through official forecasts and advisories. With changing temperatures this week and a small chance of additional showers or thunderstorms associated with an approaching warm front, people should monitor local weather updates, especially if coastal activities are planned given the rough surf from Hurricane Erin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an EF-1 tornado rating mean?
An EF-1 rating on the Enhanced Fujita scale indicates estimated wind speeds between 86 and 110 mph. EF-1 tornadoes can cause moderate damage to roofs, siding, trees, and vehicles.
Where did the tornadoes touch down?
Two tornadoes touched down in Paxton, and single touchdowns were confirmed in Holden, Berlin, and Stow.
Were there any injuries or major damage reported?
Initial reports confirm the tornado touchdowns and ratings. Detailed assessments of damage and any injuries are handled by local authorities and the National Weather Service; updates will be released by those agencies as assessments conclude.
Will Hurricane Erin affect New England directly?
Hurricane Erin is expected to remain hundreds of miles offshore and not make landfall in New England, but it will generate large waves and choppy coastal conditions.
What should residents do this week for weather safety?
Residents should monitor forecasts, prepare for cooler nights, be aware of a chance of rain primarily south of Boston tomorrow, and take precautions for rough coastal waters. Review family emergency plans and stay ready to follow any local instructions in case of changing conditions.
Quick Reference Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Tornado Count | 5 confirmed (all EF-1) |
| EF Rating | EF-1 (86–110 mph) |
| Touchdown Locations | Paxton (2), Holden (1), Berlin (1), Stow (1) |
| Tonight’s lows | 40s–50s |
| Boston expected highs (this week) | Upper 60s to near 70; warmup to upper 70s on Thursday |
| MetroWest expected highs | Near mid-70s; close to 80 on Thursday |
| Rain chance | Tomorrow, mainly south of Boston (Cape and Islands) |
| Seasonal outlook | Mostly dry autumn expected; temperatures likely warmer than average Sep–Nov; possible moderate drought |
| Coastal impacts | Large waves and choppy waters from Hurricane Erin (storm remains offshore) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Boston Herald: Boston Weather – Mostly Dry Week, Seasonable Fall-like Temperatures Ahead
- Wikipedia: Weather
- Boston.com: New England Likely to See a Warm Autumn, Meteorologists Say
- Google Search: New England Weather
- CBS News: Fall Foliage Across New England
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fall
- Boston Globe: New England Boston Forecast
- Google News: Boston Weather
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
