Mass., Nor’easter Causing ‘Widespread’ Power Outages

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(TNS) – An April nor’easter is set to bring strong winds to Massachusetts that could cause “widespread power outages” on Wednesday and Thursday, especially if snow accumulates on power lines, according to the National Weather Service.

Powerful winds are expected to begin Wednesday afternoon in some areas of the state and peak overnight, according to the weather service. Communities such as Gloucester, Hyannis, Nantucket, New Bedford, Provincetown and Vineyard Haven are all predicted to experience wind gusts over 50 mph during that time.

The weather service has issued two high wind warnings and one wind advisory that together cover the entire state. The two areas expected to experience the strongest winds are the eastern Massachusetts coast and the northern Berkshires.

The first high wind warning that will go into effect in the state on Wednesday is for northern Berkshire County. It begins at 10 a.m. and lasts through 10 a.m. Thursday. During this time, east winds of 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph are expected, according to the weather service.

During the windstorm, damaging winds may blow down trees and power lines, and widespread power outages are expected. Travel is predicted to be difficult, especially for tall vehicles, according to the weather service.

“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive,” the weather service wrote in the warning.

Massachusetts’ second high wind warning is for Suffolk and Barnstable Counties and eastern Essex, Norfolk and Plymouth Counties. It will go into effect at 8 p.m. Wednesday and last through 2 p.m. Thursday.

During this time, east winds of 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph are expected, according to the weather service. The predicted hazards and suggested precautions are the same as for the other high wind warning.

The rest of Massachusetts is under a wind advisory from 4 p.m. Wednesday to 2 p.m. Thursday . During this time, northeast winds of 25 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected, according to the weather service.

Gusty winds during the windstorm may blow around unsecured objects and blow down tree limbs, resulting in a few power outages, according to the weather service. Strong winds can make driving difficult, especially for tall vehicles, so the weather service advised driving with caution during this time.