Massachusetts is bracing for a dangerous combination of extreme heat and severe thunderstorms on Thursday, with temperatures over 100 degrees and the potential for damaging winds, torrential rain and even a tornado risk.
A heat advisory was in effect for the majority of Massachusetts from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. With the heat and high humidity, temperatures could feel up to 101 degrees.
Forecasters warn residents to keep hydrated and indoors if possible, and to limit early morning and evening activities. The conditions could cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Though actual highs are expected to reach 96 degrees in Boston, 95 in Springfield and 92 in Worcester, it could feel well over 100 due to high humidity.
Along the southern coastline and across Cape Cod & the Islands, temperatures will stay milder — in the 70s to low 80s — thanks to persistent low clouds and fog.
That fog was dense across much of the state as of 6 a.m., but it’s expected to lift after sunrise, except in those cooler coastal areas.
Skies will clear out through the daytime in Eastern and Central Massachusetts, but those in western parts of the state will not be so lucky.
Heavy thunderstorms are expected to roll in to Western Massachusetts by 2 p.m. and last until 7 p.m., forecasters said.
The storms may become severe with high winds and torrential downpours, leading to street flooding.
Tornadoes and hail are both possible in this timeframe, though risk is low, forecasters said.
The thunderstorms are projected to reach Eastern Massachusetts by the evening, picking up between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.
Temperatures and humidity are expected to decrease overnight into Friday morning as the storms dwindle.