coastal flooding – The National Weather Service has issued a coastal flood statement for multiple Massachusetts counties, warning low-lying shore areas and tidal waterways could see up to a foot of inundation above ground level through late Tuesday night.
On a Tuesday that feels almost like a gift—bright, “beautiful” weather and cooler, seasonal conditions on the way for Wednesday—coastal residents are being asked to keep one eye on the tide.
The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood statement early Tuesday warning that low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways could see up to a foot of inundation above ground level. The warning applies to Suffolk County. Barnstable County. Dukes County. and the eastern parts of Essex. Norfolk and Plymouth counties. and it remains in effect through late Tuesday night.
For people living or commuting near the water, the impact may be shallow—but it could still disrupt the places that are most vulnerable. The NWS said shallow flooding less than a foot deep may occur along coastal areas like Morrissey Boulevard in Boston, though most roads should remain passable.
On the North Shore, the forecast is more specific. Coastal roads from Salem to Gloucester and Newburyport may see flooding of a foot. The wording from the weather service is blunt: rough surf will cause flooding on some coastal roads around the time of high tide due to splashover.
By 1 a.m. Wednesday, the high tide in Boston Harbor is predicted to be about two feet above the average high tide line, which brings minor flood risks. In other words, the highest concern is still tied to when the shoreline and tides line up.
After Tuesday’s “beautiful and bright” conditions, Wednesday is expected to bring more cooler, seasonal weather. Then the heat and humidity are forecast to return Thursday, with the potential for showers and thunderstorms. The forecast calls for rain likely on Thursday, with thunderstorms possible in the afternoon and evening. Friday is expected to be sunny again, with a high near 86 degrees, according to the NWS forecast.
A small storm tide can turn routine waterfront travel into a timed gamble: watch the hours around high tide, and remember that even areas that usually cope with ocean conditions can be overtaken when the water pushes in.
coastal flooding Boston Harbor National Weather Service Morrissey Boulevard Salem Gloucester Newburyport tidal waterways inundation