September storm brings flood and wind threats to Massachusetts
A rare September nor'easter moved into Massachusetts with heavy rain and strong winds. Boston officials urged residents to prepare for power outages, flooding, and coastal erosion. The storm canceled flights and ferry service and caused tens of thousands of outages.
A September nor’easter is unusual for Massachusetts, and this one was forecast to bring two to four inches of rain to Boston with city winds near 50 mph. Offshore, waves could build to 25 feet and winds to 60 knots, raising concerns about coastal flooding and beach loss.
Statewide outages exceeded 10,000 by Saturday, while roughly 70,000 customers lost power across the Northeast. Logan canceled more than 170 flights since Friday, ferry routes to the Cape and islands stopped, and officials urged residents to report downed lines to 911 and non-emergencies through 311.
The storm could disrupt daily life across eastern Massachusetts, especially for commuters, ferry-dependent island residents, and coastal homeowners. Power outages may affect households and businesses, while canceled flights and ferries could strand travelers or delay essential trips. Flooding and erosion might damage shorefront property and infrastructure, and emergency crews could face stretched resources. People with medical needs or limited mobility may be especially vulnerable if outages or road closures persist.