The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts on Thursday, July 25, effective until 4:30 p.m.
Affected areas in Rhode Island include Warwick, East Providence, Portsmouth, Barrington, Bristol, Warren, and Tiverton. In Massachusetts, the warning covers Middleborough, Dartmouth, Wareham, Somerset, Swansea, Raynham, and Rehoboth.
According to the National Weather Service, the storm is capable of producing damaging winds of up to 60 mph and nickel-sized hail. Residents in these areas are advised to seek shelter immediately and remain indoors until the threat has passed.
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A severe thunderstorm warning is issued when a storm with the potential to cause serious damage is either occurring or imminent. It signals the need for immediate action, as such storms can produce strong winds, heavy rainfall, and hail.
In addition to the localized warning, a broader severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for the rest of Rhode Island, as well as parts of Connecticut and Massachusetts, until 9 p.m. Thursday.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to monitor local weather updates, stay indoors during storm activity, and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
