A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for southern New England through 10 p.m. Thursday, warning of strong winds, large hail, and dangerous lightning across multiple marine zones. Boaters and beachgoers are being urged to stay off the water as hazardous conditions are expected to impact coastal areas, including Boston Harbor, Rhode Island Sound, and Long Island Sound.
Areas Under Severe Thunderstorm Watch
The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued Severe Thunderstorm Watch 484, which includes key marine areas like Boston Harbor, Rhode Island Sound, Narragansett Bay, Long Island Sound, and New York Harbor. The watch, issued at 1:30 p.m. EDT, warns of wind gusts up to 60 mph, large hail, and frequent cloud-to-ground lightning through the evening.
Impact on Boating and Shoreline Travel
Hazardous conditions are likely to affect ferry services, recreational boating, and shoreline travel, particularly from Peconic and Gardiners Bays to the South Shore bays of Long Island. Cities such as Providence, New Haven, and coastal parts of New York City are also at risk of sudden storm surges and heavy rainfall. Emergency managers are advising people to secure outdoor items and delay any non-essential marine travel until conditions improve.
Continued Storm Threats
This marks the third severe thunderstorm event in southern New England this week, following a series of weather disturbances in early July. The National Weather Service warns that additional storm watches may be issued as the system tracks northeastward overnight, potentially bringing more severe conditions.
Southern New England faces a dangerous evening of severe thunderstorms, with strong winds, hail, and lightning expected. Boaters and beachgoers are urged to stay off the water, and residents should secure outdoor items and stay updated on weather developments. Additional storm watches could be issued as the system moves northeast.
