Tornado Watch Expanded Across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine

The National Weather Service has expanded a tornado watch to include multiple Massachusetts counties, as well as all of New Hampshire and Maine. The watch, which remains in effect until 7 p.m., warns of possible tornadoes, half-inch-sized hail, and wind gusts reaching 80 mph across the region.

The alert began in Berkshire County before the National Weather Service expanded the watch into Essex, Hampshire, Franklin, Middlesex, Hampden, and Worcester counties. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor conditions for severe weather developments.

Which areas are under severe weather warnings?

Severe thunderstorm warnings are currently active for Middlesex and Worcester counties in Massachusetts until 5 p.m. According to the National Weather Service, these warnings are more immediate than the broader tornado watch.

In New Hampshire, severe thunderstorm warnings are in effect until 5 p.m. for Hillsborough, Merrimack, and Rockingham counties, as well as Southeastern Grafton County.

Did You Know? The tornado watch for Massachusetts was initially issued for Berkshire County before being expanded to cover six additional counties.

What are the primary weather risks?

The National Weather Service warned that areas under the tornado watch could experience tornadoes and scattered wind gusts up to 80 mph. The agency also noted the possibility of half-inch-sized hail.

These conditions may lead to localized damage or power disruptions. Residents can use the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) real-time power outage viewer to track current outages and restoration times from utility companies.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the overlap of broad tornado watches with specific, time-bound severe thunderstorm warnings indicates a volatile atmospheric window. The primary stake for residents is the short lead time between a watch and a warning, making real-time monitoring of radar tools critical for safety.

How can residents stay informed?

MEMA provides live weather radar and forecasting tools for residents to monitor storm movement. Official updates are also available through Mass211, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the National Weather Service offices in Boston and Albany, NY.

First Alert forecast: Tornado watch for parts of Massachusetts and Vermont

For transportation updates, the source points to MassDOT, the MBTA, Logan Airport, and Amtrak. These agencies may provide information if weather conditions impact transit schedules.

What happens next?

Weather conditions could shift as the severe thunderstorm warnings expire at 5 p.m. However, the broader tornado watch remains active until 7 p.m., meaning the risk of tornadic activity may persist for several more hours.

If conditions worsen, the National Weather Service may issue additional warnings for counties currently only under a watch. Residents should continue to monitor official channels for immediate evacuation or shelter instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the tornado watch end?
The tornado watch is in effect until 7 p.m.

Which states are included in the tornado watch?
Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine are all under a tornado watch.

What are the expected wind speeds?
The National Weather Service warned of scattered wind gusts up to 80 mph.

How do you typically prepare your home and family when a tornado watch is issued for your area?