BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The National Weather Service Boston says strong winds expected Monday could cause widespread power outages across New England.
The NWS warned of "strong to damaging" wind gusts beginning early Monday afternoon, expected along with heavy rainfall into Monday night.
"Strong to damaging winds up to 60 mph possible Monday ... and may result in scattered power outages across portions of RI and eastern MA," NWS Boston tweeted Sunday.
In parts of western Massachusetts and Connecticut, wind gust speeds are expected to range from 25-40 mph.
In most of eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island, maximum wind gust speeds are expected to range from 45-60 mph.
The strong winds and heavy rain could also result in urban street flooding, NWS warned.
Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency says it's important to prepare for possible power outages, which can be dangerous for residents, especially those who rely on electricity for medical devices.
"Preparing for power outages can help minimize the impact and keep you and your family safe," MEMA says. "Be informed by receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during, and after emergencies."
MEMA's tips for preparing for a power outage include fully charging your cellphone, laptop, and other electronic devices, filling your bathtub and spare containers with water if you have a water supply (such as a well-water pump system) that could be affected by a power outage, and keeping your car’s gas tank full, because pumps at gas stations may not work during a power outage.
Click here for more power outage preparedness and safety tips.
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(Photo: NWSBoston/Twitter)