Tropical Storm Elsa May Approach Bedford on Friday, July 9

A National Weather Service Boston map published on Thursday morning outlined the potential impact for Tropical Storm Elsa on Friday, July 9; it shows Bedford just outside its red area of concern.

NOAA predicts minimal severe weather for tomorrow – Click to see the full-size image

According to MEMA, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, on Thursday morning:

On its current forecast track, Elsa will move over South Carolina and North Carolina today, pass near the eastern mid-Atlantic states by tonight, and move near or New England on Friday and Friday night.

Some re-strengthening is possible tonight and Friday while the system moves close to the northeastern United States. Elsa is forecast to become a Post-tropical Cyclone Friday night or Saturday.

The primary concerns with this tropical storm are possible flash flooding across much of southern New England due to heavy rainfall. Damaging winds and power outages are possible. An increase in surf and rip currents along south coastal areas but, no coastal or storm surge flooding is expected.

Elsa is expected to be a fast-moving storm clearing out of MA by early Friday evening.

Potential Impacts of Tropical Storm Elsa

Heavy rainfall of 2 to 4 inches with the greatest threat expected north/west of Elsa’s track, with isolated severe thunderstorms; an isolated tornado is possible.

The greatest risk for potential for gusty winds up to 50 mph, is forecast for southeastern Massachusetts, mainly south/east of Elsa’s track. The winds will start to ramp up after 5 AM Friday with the strongest winds starting around 8 AM and peaking around noon.