Strong Storms Rumble Across the Northeast

Gusty thunderstorms and drenching rains will move through the Northeast today. 

An area of low pressure moving through eastern Canada will bring very warm and humid conditions to much of the Northeast today. With a pool of cooler air aloft and some stronger winds, areas from northern New York to Maine could experience some gusty thunderstorms during the afternoon and early evening. 

The government's Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, for areas near Burlington, Vt. to Caribou, Maine. Wind gusts in excess of 60 mph and heavy downpours will be the main threats, but an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. 

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued in the upper sections of the Northeast including northeastern New York, northern Vermont, central to northern New Hampshire, and a large portion of northern Maine. Cities include Burlington, Vt., Montpelier, Vt., Lebanon, N.H., Greenville and Caribou, Maine. Severe wind gusts up to 65 mph and a few tornadoes are the main threats.

Farther south, a cold front sinking southward will move through the Mid-Atlantic and Ohio Valley during the afternoon hours. While this front is very weak, isolated showers and thunderstorms will be possible, with a few thunderstorms potentially producing wind gusts in excess of 50 mph along with heavy downpours.

A secondary area of concern for severe weather will occur across the northern High Plains this afternoon. A small Slight Risk has been issued across portions of Montana in far western North Dakota. Damaging winds and large hail will be the primary threats from these thunderstorms. 

Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.

The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"