Massachusetts Storm Triggers Widespread Power Outages for Thousands
Severe weather conditions in Massachusetts on Friday resulted in significant power outages and disruptions throughout the state. High winds and heavy rain impacted thousands, leading to widespread power failures and travel delays.
Massachusetts Storm Causes Extensive Power Outages
As of late Friday evening, approximately 21,000 customers were without power, down from a peak of 81,000 earlier in the day. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency reported significant outages across various communities, particularly:
- Foxboro
- Wrentham
- Pepperell
- West Brookfield
- Franklin
- Holliston
Travel Disruptions at Boston’s Logan Airport
The storm also heavily disrupted air travel, with Boston’s Logan Airport experiencing over 200 cancellations and delays. According to FlightAware, there were:
- 122 cancellations
- 434 delays
- JetBlue recorded 23 cancellations and 102 delays
The airport advised travelers to check with their airlines before heading to the airport due to potential delays and cancellations associated with the wind.
Impact of High Winds and Rain
The storm brought dangerously high winds, with gusts reaching up to 79 mph recorded at the Blue Hill Observatory in Milton. Other areas reported significant wind speeds as well:
- Attleboro: 65 mph
- Wareham: 62 mph
- North Dighton: 61 mph
- Wrentham: 60 mph
Many roads across the state were obstructed by fallen trees and wires. Wrentham police advised residents to expect delays due to these hazards. Reports from Skywarn weather spotters indicated that scaffolding was blown off a building on Heath Street in Boston.
Continued Weather Warnings
Residents were cautioned to remain vigilant as heavy rainfall and potential thunderstorms were expected to continue into the afternoon. Reports of localized street flooding were prevalent, but the rain was anticipated to move offshore by 5 p.m.
This storm serves as a reminder of the impact severe weather can have on daily life in Massachusetts, prompting residents to stay informed and prepared.
