Good morning.

Concern continues as the strong winds arriving across most of the region this afternoon and evening, with the strongest winds across southern Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. 

 Here is the latest update on the headlines across the region: 
  • The Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through 5 PM this afternoon for the northern slopes of the Berkshires and northern Worcester Hills where temperature will hover around freezing, with a mix of light snow, sleet and freezing rain. 
  • Strong winds will become a concern for Friday afternoon and evening.
    • A High Wind Warning remains in effect for the south coast of Rhode Island and Massachusetts from 1 PM to 8 PM, and for Cape Cod and the Islands from 1 PM to 10 PM. 
      • Gusts up to 60-70 mph   
    • A High Wind Warning has been issued for Plymouth County from 1 PM to 8 PM.
      • Gusts up to 60 mph
    • A Wind Advisory is in effect for northern Connecticut, northern Rhode Island, and south central/eastern Massachusetts as well as Hampden county from 1 PM to 10 PM. 
      • Gusts up to 55 mph
    • Storm Warnings and Gale Warnings remain in effect for strong winds across the waters starting at 1 PM this afternoon. 
Here are a few more details: 

1.)  Today through this evening:

-- Temperatures will likely remain around or just below freezing across the higher inland terrain through midday, which will mean a prolonged period of light freezing rain and sleet. 
-- The rain will change back to snow starting early this afternoon across the east slopes of the Berkshires, then shifting east across the Connecticut Valley into central Massachusetts by this evening before tapering off.

2.)  Strong winds this afternoon and evening:

-- Winds will shift to the west by early this afternoon and will quickly increase. Expect the peak winds to peak around 4 PM to 8 PM.
-- The strongest winds will be over southeast Massachusetts, especially Cape Cod and the Islands where winds could gust 60 to 70 mph. 
-- Winds will remain gusty through this evening, diminishing during the overnight hours. 

Thank you.

If you have any questions or would like more information, don't hesitate to contact us via this email address, on NWSChat, or at the following:

National Weather Service Boston/Norton, MA
46 Commerce Way
Norton, MA 02766
508.622.3280
Website | Facebook | Twitter