Widespread showers and storms moved across New England on Saturday, with severe thunderstorm warnings in several states and a tornado warning in Connecticut. However, it is possible that more severe weather conditions will end the weekend.
Persistent storms are expected on Sunday, with a strong cold front expected to pass through the region. Damaging winds, localized flash flooding, hail and even a few tornadoes will be possible.
The greatest storm threat will be between early afternoon and late evening over Vermont and New Hampshire. The first storms could begin around noon. For Boston, storm risks begin around 2 p.m.
The United States has more tornadoes than anywhere else on Earth, with more than 1,000 each year. As our planet warms, supercell storms become more powerful and shift the location of Tornado Alley. Chase Cain, climate journalist and national meteorologist, explains the connection between climate change and tornadoes.
The National Weather Service said there was a sharp increase in the tornado threat in the area on Sunday, noting that its storm forecast center had circled the high tornado risk in its forecast for Sunday.
For central New England, there is a 10% tornado threat within a 25-mile radius of a point – the highest tornado risk for New England in six years.
Everyone is reminded to remain weather aware and practice safety in inclement weather, especially those who will be outside on Sunday, whether camping, boating or otherwise.
Preparing for a severe storm
Following the National Weather Service’s warning of an increased risk of severe storms Sunday, the New Hampshire Department of Safety’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is urging residents and visitors to the Granite State prepare now for the possibility of damaging winds, isolated tornadoes, hail, and flash floods.
“Stay informed to keep you and your family safe,” HSEM Director Robert Buxton said in a press release Saturday evening. “Review your family emergency plan now and make sure your emergency kit is well stocked. Your kit should include important documents and contact information as well as supplies.
Officials stressed camping safety, saying campers should have a way to be aware of changing conditions and be prepared to immediately evacuate to higher ground in the event of flooding. Campers should also have a plan for alternative shelter if necessary.
Other safety recommendations from Buxton include:
- Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts. Be sure to watch for storm updates.
- In the event of flooding, move to higher ground immediately. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you over and 1 foot of water can sweep away your vehicle.
- If you are driving a vehicle, remember the saying “turn around, don’t drown.”
- If floodwaters are rising around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car or enter moving water. Just 6 inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling.
- Prepare your home: Trim any trees that could fall and cause damage.
- Tie up or bring inside all objects that could be blown away by the wind (outdoor furniture, decorations, trash cans and other loose items that are normally left outside).
- Follow the instructions of local emergency officials and know how to evacuate safely if asked.
- Stay aware of road conditions.
Get all severe weather alerts for your area here and follow live radar below:
Tornado warnings were in effect for parts of southern New England.
