MEMA Situational Awareness Statement

Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
Situational Awareness Statement

SUBJECT: Localized Flash Flooding and Gusty Winds Possible Today/Tomorrow

Situation

A cold front passing through the region tonight, together with Tropical Storm Michael passing south of Nantucket on Friday, will bring potentially heavy rainfall and gusty winds to the New England region today and tomorrow. Pockets of heavy rain are possible this afternoon and evening with the primary focus shifting into far southeast New England late tonight and Friday.

Widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are forecast with locally higher amounts of 3-6 inches possible, with the greatest risk falling across far southeast New England. Areas that receive heavier rainfall amounts are at risk of localized flash flooding. Northerly wind gusts of 35 to 50 mph are possible late tonight into Friday across far southeast New England with the greatest risk across the Cape and Islands.

While the National Weather Service has high confidence that periods of heavy rain will occur, especially across far southeast New England, it is still uncertain if heavy rain will persist long enough across the interior to result in localized flash flooding, or if areas of 3-6 inch rainfall will impact southeast New England or remain just offshore, sparing the region of potential flooding.

Impacts:

Pockets of heavy rain may result in localized flash flooding, with the highest risk across far southeastern New England.

Northerly wind gusts of up to 50 MPH across far southeastern New England on Friday may result in minor tree damage and isolated power outages.

Watches, Warnings, Advisories

Flash Flood Watch  Issued: October 11 at 4:32AM EDT  Expiring: October 12 at 8:00AM EDT Areas affected: Eastern Plymouth; Northern Bristol; Southern Bristol; Southern Plymouth; Western Plymouth