A stretch of dry weather is coming to an end across the Northeast as a storm system brings widespread rain, thunderstorms, and the potential for flooding to parts of the region on Friday. 

The same system that has produced unsettled weather across much of the country is now impacting the East Coast, bringing a surge of moisture into the Mid-Atlantic and New England. While the rainfall will provide some relief to areas experiencing unusually dry conditions, the intensity of the rainfall could create problems for millions of residents. 

Some of the heaviest rain is expected along the Interstate 95 corridor, where major metropolitan areas could experience periods of reduced visibility, ponding on roads, and difficult travel conditions. 

The heaviest rainfall will be for southern New England, where the combination of abundant moisture and repeated rounds of rainfall could lead to flooding. 

The Weather Prediction Center has highlighted portions of Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts under a Slight risk (Level 2 out of 4) for excessive rainfall. This includes communities around Providence and Boston, where periods of heavy rain could overwhelm drainage systems and cause localized flash flooding. 

Flood Watches

Flood watches have been issued for the risk of flooding. Many locations across the Northeast could receive an inch or more of rain, with isolated totals between 2 and 3 inches possible. Some communities could see even higher amounts if thunderstorms repeatedly move over the same areas. Rainfall rates could be intense at times, greatly reducing visibility and generating flash flooding.

The heaviest rainfall, according to our in-house forecast models, remains over portions of CT, RI, and MA.

The chance for stronger storms will be farther south, on the southern extend of a frontal boundary. There is a marginal risk for severe weather added from the Storm Prediction Center to lookout for on Friday, across the mid-Atlantic.

FORECAST

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