FRAMINGHAM, MA — Residents and others in Massachusetts are urged to prepare for Hurricane Henri, which is expected to affect much of Massachusetts and other New England states beginning Saturday night and into Monday, (Aug. 21st – Aug. 23rd. 2021). Warnings include the potential for strong winds, heavy rain, flooding and power outages.

Tropical Storm Henri is projected to become a hurricane and significantly impact much of Central and Eastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod and the Islands, and the South Coast. Hurricane force winds, (winds above 74 mph), and substantial storm surges in coastal communities are expected.

The State Emergency Operations Center at MEMA Headquarters in Framingham is activated and closely monitoring the storm and forecast to provide situational awareness.

The majority of Massachusetts is projected to receive a significant amount of rain, particularly from Greater Boston to Worcester County. All residents are advised to begin storm preparations today, and to pay close attention to local weather reports to monitor the track of the storm.

Henri could cause power outages impacting at least 100,000 residents, and possibly as many as 300,000, and utility crews are being staged to assist in restoring power. For power outage updates and specific restoration times by town, check the Eversource outage map at outagemap.eversource.com or call Eversource at (800) 592-2000.

Governor Baker has activated the Massachusetts National Guard under state active duty to fulfill highwater rescue, debris clearing and public safety support from impacted communities. The activation order allows for up to 1,000 guardsmen and will remain in place until support is no longer needed.

People are reminded to stay away from any downed utility wires. Also, people are reminded to use any generators or gas grills outside to avoid carbon monoxide fumes.

Property owners are encouraged to take photos or videos to document any damages to property and to contact their insurance company.

Use the following links to get more info about what you should do before, during and after a hurricane or tropical storm.

• Hurricane Safety Tips / Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency – MEMA
• U.S. National Hurricane Center – NHC
• U.S. National Weather Service – www.weather.gov

###