A strong windstorm was expected to spark power outages across the region Wednesday night into Thursday, with power companies ready to respond.
The National Weather Service had issued a “High Wind Warning” for Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. Meteorologists were forecasting strong to potentially damaging wind gusts topping 50 mph across the Cape and Islands through Thursday morning.
“Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Power outages are possible,” reads the NWS High Wind Warning. “Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches,” NWS added. “If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.”
In addition to the Cape and Islands, strong wind gusts were expected for other parts of the Bay State. A “Wind Advisory” was in effect through Thursday morning for the Boston-area and elsewhere around Massachusetts.
“Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects,” the NWS Wind Advisory reads. “Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
“Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle,” NWS added. “Secure outdoor objects.”
The storm was expected to depart by the end of the day on Thursday, followed by significantly lighter winds on Friday.
Meanwhile, power companies said they were ready to respond to outages. Strong wind gusts combined with saturated grounds have the potential to damage trees and knock down power wires, causing outages.
“National Grid is closely monitoring the weather forecast, and we have crews and personnel in place across Massachusetts ready to respond to any impacts this storm may bring,” said Tim Moore, VP of Electric Operations for New England. “If outages occur, our crews will be ready to restore the power systems as soon as it is safe to do so.”
National Grid secured additional crews and personnel for the storm. That included overhead line, forestry, contractors, underground, damage assessment, wires down, transmission, and substation workers. Crews were also pre-staged on Nantucket ahead of the storm.
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