The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning for the period from 3 pm to 11 pm Monday evening, advising Martha’s Vineyard residents that rain and damaging winds from the south are expected, with gusts up to 65 miles per hour.
Forecasters expect a low pressure system passing over Southern New England this afternoon to intensify rapidly in the early evening hours.
“Wind gusts may be strong enough to bring down trees, large branches, or power lines,” the weather service said in a hazardous weather outlook issued this morning. “Scattered power outages could result. Secure any loose outdoor objects. Have flashlights available in case you lose power. Never use candles since they are a fire hazard.”
Weather service meteorologists issued a storm warning for coastal waters until 1 am Tuesday morning, advising recreational boaters to remain in port, and commercial vessels to take precautions.
“Commercial vessels should prepare for very strong wind and dangerous sea conditions, and consider remaining in port or taking shelter in port until winds and waves subside.”
Forecasters also predict as much as an inch of rain with the storm, followed by unseasonably cold temperatures throughout the week.
