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NWS: High Wind Warning Thursday, Friday

The National Weather Service warns of a high wind warning and flood warning for the region Tuesday through Wednesday.
The National Weather Service warns of a high wind warning and flood warning for the region Tuesday through Wednesday.
The National Weather Service warns of a high wind warning.

NORTON, MA — The National Weather Service warns of high wind starting late tonight and lasting till 9 a.m. Friday, according to the agency’s high wind warning.

The NWS warns of Southwest winds at 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 65 mph in In Massachusetts, Southern Bristol MA, Southern Plymouth MA, Barnstable MA, Dukes MA and Nantucket MA Counties, and all of Rhode Island. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles, NWS reports.

People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.

Given the potenial for damage and power outages, readers should bear the following emergency info in mind throughout the evening and early Friday morning.

Emergency Alerts:

RIBA – Make sure you’re signed up for text alerts from the Rhode Island Broadcasters Association. You’ll get emergency notifications (including school closings and delays) direct to your phone or email.

CodeRED – The City of Warwick has instituted a new rapid emergency notification service called CodeRED®.  The system will distribute emergency messages via telephone to targeted areas or the entire City of Warwick. Register here.

TF Green Airport –  Click here to follow arrivals and departures at Green.

Emergency Calls:

  • In an emergency, dial 911
  • Police Department: 401-468-4200
  • Fire Department: (401) 468-4000
  • Highway Dept./Snow removal – 401-738-2000 ext. 6518
  • Do NOT call 911 to report a power outage. Contact National Grid at 1-800-465-1212. Smartphone users can also text STORM to NGRID (64743) for outage alerts. To check the status of outages in your area, visit  National Grid Outage Central for Rhode Island.

Listen to NOAA radio: Check the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration radio frequency here.

Safety Tips:

  • If you use a generator to supply power during an outage, be sure to operate it outdoors. Before operating generators, disconnect from National Grid’s system by shutting off the main breaker located in the electric service panel. Failure to do this could jeopardize the safety of line crews and the public.
  • Natural gas customers should closely inspect areas around and over gas meters, service hook-ups and vents for debris that could damage equipment or prevent CO from properly venting.
  • If  you suspect a natural gas leak:
    • Get Out – All occupants should leave the house immediately. Do not use the telephone or light switches for any reason.
    • Call Us – After leaving the house and reaching a safe environment, call the National Grid 24-hour gas emergency numbers at 1-800-640-1595
    • Stay Out – Do not return to your home until National Grid tells you it is safe.
Rob Borkowski
Author: Rob Borkowski

Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at [email protected] with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.

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