Severe thunderstorm threat Saturday, with slight tornado risk
BOSTON - The WBZ Weather Team has issued a NEXT Weather Alert for Saturday due to another round of strong to severe storms.
This wave will look quite similar to what occurred this past Thursday. It even rolls across the region in the same timeframe. Here is what you need to know:
TIMING: A small batch of showers and an isolated rumble of thunder may pop up between 6-9am. These shouldn't lead to any real concern and isn't the main event. A front will move west to east after the 2pm hour and last through sunset. The greatest threat will likely occur from 6pm-onward.
IMPACTS: The atmosphere is primed for torrential rain. These cells will likely produce heavy rainfall rates leading to lower visibility on the roads and localized flooding. If there is any silver lining to the amount of rain recorded, it would be the location. Highest totals may end up towards the southeastern side of the state. Eastern Plymouth County, Cape Cod, and the Islands have recorded more average rainfall in comparison to the excessive values for interior locations. That means that can absorb more water and hopefully lead to a less exacerbated flooding concern.
There may be some small hail and damaging wind along with these storms. While most of the damage will likely come straight line wind, there could be a quick spin up. There is a "non-zero" threat of a tornado later today. A 2% chance from the National Weather Service may seem like a low value but any risk of a tornado should be taken seriously. If you hear a rumble of thunder, be sure to head indoors and have a safe space if necessary.
OUTLOOK: There is so much to look forward to. The heat wave that has felt like weeks (it's been 4 days…) will come to an end Sunday. Humidity drops off and drier air will prevail as temperatures hover around 80°. That cooler trend continues through the end of the month into early August.
Stay with WBZ-TV, WBZ.com and CBS News Boston all day Saturday for frequent updates on the storms.