If you have early morning travel plans on Thursday, you might want to check the weather twice. A strong weather system is moving into Massachusetts, and it’s bringing heavy rain and gusty winds that could cause major problems — especially for drivers on Interstate 93 (I-93) through Boston.
This storm isn’t just a quick shower. Weather experts are warning that it could affect visibility, slow down traffic, and even cause minor flooding in some areas. If you’re driving early in the day, it’s important to be extra cautious and prepared.
What’s Coming and When?
According to the National Weather Service, the storm is expected to hit late Wednesday night and continue into Thursday morning. During this time, most parts of eastern Massachusetts will see:
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Heavy downpours that can make roads slippery
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Strong wind gusts that may reach up to 40 mph
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Low visibility, especially during early commute hours
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Possible minor street flooding in urban and low-lying areas
Forecasters say the worst of the weather will happen between 5 AM and 10 AM on Thursday — right during the busy morning drive.
I-93: A Key Route in the Danger Zone
Interstate 93 is one of Boston’s busiest highways, connecting thousands of people to work, school, and beyond. But when rain pours and winds whip through the city, this stretch of road can quickly become dangerous.
Slippery conditions, water pooling on roads, and sudden wind gusts can make it harder for drivers to stay in control. Delays and minor accidents are possible, especially during peak hours.
If you must travel on I-93 Thursday morning, consider:
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Leaving earlier than usual to allow extra time
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Driving slowly and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles
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Using headlights to improve visibility
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Avoiding sudden stops or sharp turns
How Strong Are the Winds?
The wind may not be strong enough to cause large-scale damage, but 40 mph gusts are nothing to ignore. These winds can:
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Knock down small tree branches
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Make driving tricky, especially for trucks and high-profile vehicles
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Cause loose objects like trash bins to blow into roads or sidewalks
Pedestrians and cyclists should also be careful, especially near tall buildings where wind tunnels can form.
What to Expect Later in the Day
The rain and winds are expected to weaken by early afternoon. By late Thursday, skies could start to clear, but roads may stay wet for several hours. Temperatures will likely remain cool, and some light showers may stick around into the evening.
If you’re planning to be out later in the day, conditions will be much better than in the morning — but it’s still smart to keep an umbrella nearby.
Final Safety Tips for Massachusetts Residents
With weather like this, it’s always better to be prepared than surprised. Here are a few final things to keep in mind:
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Check weather updates from local news or trusted apps
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Charge your phone in case of any outages or emergencies
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Avoid low-lying roads that tend to flood easily
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Stay home if you don’t need to travel early in the morning
