Will Hurricane Lee hit Central Mass.? Here's the latest forecast

Veer Mudambi, Worcester Telegram & Gazette
Updated ·2 min read

WORCESTER — While Hurricane Lee will be closer to coastal areas of the state, Central Massachusetts and Worcester County residents can still expect high winds and potentially heavy rain this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Central Massachusetts currently has a low probability of sustained tropical storm-force winds on Saturday, but winds may still gust over 40 mph.
Central Massachusetts currently has a low probability of sustained tropical storm-force winds on Saturday, but winds may still gust over 40 mph.

Forecasts on Saturday are for strong winds of 25 to 30 mph with gusts reaching tropical storm force of 40 mph, said National Weather Service spokesperson Bill Leatham on Thursday. This increases the potential for tree damage and associated power outages. He encouraged residents to keep phones and appliances charged along with preparedness kits.

"Heavy rain should stay to the east of Central Massachusetts but is not out of the question," said Leatham. "Should be similar to a moderate nor’easter."

More: What are the biggest hurricanes to hit Massachusetts? A look back at 8 storms

Central Massachusetts could potentially see heavy rain from Hurricane Lee, although most of the heavy rain is expected to stay east of the region.
Central Massachusetts could potentially see heavy rain from Hurricane Lee, although most of the heavy rain is expected to stay east of the region.

The rainfall could exacerbate issues in areas such as Leominster and Princeton that experienced flash flooding during Monday's storm.

"If you're in an area that's vulnerable to high winds, have another place to stay in mind," he said. The winds are expected to continue through Saturday, with Sunday being "a little breezy but dry and quiet."

Cape Cod, Islands could get 2 to 4 inches of rain

Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket are expected to get the most rain and strongest wind, according to the weather service. Cape Cod and the islands could get 2 to 4 inches of rain, while eastern Massachusetts could see 1 to 2 inches. For Providence, the weather service is forecasting just a 30% chance of rain overnight Friday and a 40% chance Saturday.

The primary hazards for Southern New England are damaging wind, powerful surf and possible flooding.

"Winds will increase on Friday and remain gusty through Saturday night," the weather service says. "Tropical storm force winds are possible late Friday night and Saturday near the coast, where downed branches or trees are possible since trees are fully leafed and root systems may be weakened from saturated soils. These winds and high seas will also be dangerous for mariners."

With reports from Providence Journal staff writer Jack Perry

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Will Hurricane Lee hit Central Mass.? Here's the latest forecast