Eastern New England Braces for Hurricane Lee, Gov. Janet Mills Declares State of Emergency
Eastern New England is gearing up for the imminent arrival of Hurricane Lee, a powerful storm that is predicted to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and high seas to the region starting later Friday and lasting into Saturday. Gov. Janet Mills of Maine has declared a state of emergency as the storm approaches, marking the state’s first hurricane watch in 15 years.
While it remains uncertain if Hurricane Lee will make a direct landfall in New England, its impacts are expected to be felt across the region due to the storm’s increasing size. Currently, the storm boasts winds of 85 mph, placing it in the Category 1 classification. Positioned around 665 miles south of Nantucket, Massachusetts, the hurricane is moving steadily north at a speed of 15 mph.
Authorities have extended a tropical storm warning to the U.S./Canada border, indicating that tropical storm conditions are predicted to occur within the next 36 hours. In southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket, residents are faced with a tropical storm warning, with hurricane and tropical storm watches in effect along coastal New England.
The primary hazards expected for southern New England are damaging winds, powerful surf, and potential flooding. In anticipation of Hurricane Lee’s landfall, Maine is taking precautionary measures, advising residents to be prepared for potential power outages, and utility companies are ramping up reinforcements.
Of particular concern is storm surge, which is expected to worsen as Hurricane Lee progresses further north. Combining with the tide, storm surge could lead to flooding in normally dry areas near the coast. Coastal regions are bracing themselves for water levels one to three feet above ground, as well as powerful and dangerous waves.
Residents of Cape Cod have been advised to have cash on hand, stock up on non-perishable food, water, and medicine for three days, and develop emergency evacuation plans. Hardware stores are witnessing a surge in business as residents hurriedly purchase sandbags, flood barriers, generators, and other storm preparedness items.
While the forecast track and spaghetti models provide a likely path for the storm, it is essential to note that its impacts may extend beyond the projected trajectory. Therefore, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and adhere to local authorities’ guidance to ensure their safety during the potentially dangerous weather conditions.
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