More severe storms are expected to hit much of Massachusetts Wednesday afternoon and evening as the extreme heat that has lasted several days is about to make an exit.
The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning that covers Worcester, southeastern Hampshire, eastern Franklin and northeastern Hampden counties. The warning noted that severe thunderstorms were spotted “along a line extending from near Erving to Hadley to Westfield, moving east at 55 mph.”
Storm clouds were expected to hit western Massachusetts at around 5 p.m. and move eastward before they dissipate at around 2 a.m., according to a weather service post on X. Forecasters are focused on any chances of severe weather along the interior north and west of Interstate 95.
Forecasters warned about wind gusts reaching 60 mph and penny-sized hail. With these storms, there is potential for damage to roofs, siding and trees.
“Damaging wind remains the primary threat, but… guidance is indicating there is a low probability for a tornado,” forecasters said.
To stay safe, forecasters said people need to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.
“Large hail and damaging winds and continuous cloud-to-ground lightning is occurring with these storms,” forecasters said. “Move indoors immediately. Lightning is one of nature’s leading killers. Remember, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.”
Forecasters also issued a severe thunderstorm watch covering Berkshire, Essex, and Middlesex counties, which will stay in effect until 8 p.m.
While the state worries about these storms, the heat advisory in place for days is expected to no longer be in effect by 8 p.m.
More showers are expected after midnight ahead of a cold front expected to arrive at dawn on Thursday. Humid conditions are expected to continue along the south coast. Clouds should break up across the state, but isolated showers remain likely.
The cold front’s arrival should lower temperatures to be more seasonal but still above average, around the mid- to upper 80s.
By Friday, dry weather should persist on through the weekend, with highs expected to stay in the 80s. However, the Merrimack and Connecticut River valleys could see temperatures inch into the low 90s.
