Flood warning, watches in Massachusetts with more heavy rain on the way: 'Turn around, don't drown'

More flood warnings and watches are in effect for the Bay State, as heavy downpours are again on the way following the recent deluge of rain that wreaked havoc on parts of the region.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for southeastern, central and western Massachusetts — alerting residents of the potential for flash flooding, at least through the Friday morning commute.

Flood warnings continue for parts of the Connecticut River in western Massachusetts, which rose after the recent rain that hammered Vermont and the western part of the Bay State.

“Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding,” the National Weather Service wrote in its flood warning alert. “Caution is urged when walking near riverbanks.

“Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles,” NWS added. “Motorists should not attempt to drive around barricades or drive cars through flooded areas.”

Ground and soil conditions are saturated across the region following the recent downpours. With more heavy rain and thunderstorms expected, this may worsen or trigger new areas of flooding.

Meteorologists are warning of street and urban flooding, along with sharp rises on creeks and streams.

“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations,” the flood watch alert reads. “Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain.”

The Connecticut River overflowed its banks in the Northampton area, which resulted in the closures of all state Office of Fishing and Boating facilities along the river. Many private marinas have also closed their launch facilities, and removed docks and boats from the water.

“Current boating conditions are deemed unsafe with excessive flow and debris being washed downriver,” Massachusetts State Police said in a statement. “These conditions will continue for the foreseeable future. All boaters should make alternative plans and stay off the river until floodwaters recede.”

Parts of New Hampshire were also in a flood watch. The New Hampshire Department of Safety’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) urges residents and visitors to prepare for possible flooding.

“We strongly encourage residents and visitors, especially campers staying at sites along rivers and streams, and campgrounds in low-lying parts, to know what to do if evacuation is needed,” said HSEM Director Robert Buxton. “Know what to do and have what you need to stay safe. Prepare your emergency kit now for at least three days and make sure your family is familiar with your emergency plan. Don’t forget to include your pets.”

The rain is unfortunately not expected to let up across the region. Wet weather should continue through at least the first half of next week, with off-and-on periods of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.

Vermont is also preparing for more storms — and possibly a tornado — with a system hitting Sunday that’s a big worry.

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