Severe thunderstorm warning issued for parts of Massachusetts; 60 mph winds, hail expected

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Boston/Norton, MA, has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for central Essex County and northeastern Middlesex County in Massachusetts, effective until 8:00 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, August 13.

At 7:05 p.m. EDT, radar detected a severe thunderstorm over Boxford, near North Andover, moving east at 15 mph (24 kph).

Forecasters warn of heavy rain, strong winds, and possible flooding as a cold front moves through the region.


According to the National Weather Service (NWS), rainfall rates between 1 and 3 inches per hour are possible, particularly in urban areas prone to poor drainage. While rain is expected to taper off overnight, forecasters caution that humid and cloudy conditions will persist into Thursday morning, August 14.

The storm is expected to bring wind gusts of up to 60 mph (96 kph) and nickel-sized hail, posing a risk of damaging trees and power lines and causing localized power outages. Residents are urged to seek shelter indoors immediately, avoid open areas, and stay away from windows until the severe weather passes.

As per NWS, the affected regions will be Haverhill, Methuen, Gloucester, North Andover, Danvers, Newburyport, North Reading, Ipswich, Middleton, Salisbury, Georgetown, Boxford, Hamilton, Rockport, Newbury, Groveland, Topsfield, Rowley, Wenham, and West Newbury.

Storms are expected to weaken after sunset, with much of the activity shifting east toward Boston after 7:00 p.m. EDT. Thursday’s forecast calls for highs in the low to mid-80s °F (27–29°C), lingering humidity, and a chance of continued showers southeast of Interstate 90.

By Friday, August 15, mostly sunny skies and cooler temperatures, high 70s °F (21–26°C) along the coast and low 80s °F (27°C) inland, should return. Another cool day is forecast for Saturday, followed by a heat rebound on Sunday, when humidity could make it feel like the mid-90s °F (34–35°C).

Looking ahead, forecasters expect another round of rain between Tuesday, August 19, and Thursday, August 21, as a fresh cool air mass moves into the region.