Severe thunderstorms could hit Mass. Saturday evening, forecasters say

Strong thunderstorms could bring hail, damaging winds and heavy rain to parts of Massachusetts Saturday afternoon and evening, according to local meteorologists and the National Weather Service (NWS).

Drying is expected to begin Saturday, but scattered storms may begin to develop after 2 p.m. as a cold front moves through southern New England, NBC Boston I mentioned. Meteorologists say small hail and damaging winds are among the main concerns, with some storms likely to become severe enough to issue advisories or warnings.

According to NWS office in BostonCommunities west and northwest of Interstate 95 face the greatest risk for severe weather, although storms could affect much of the state. The agency warned that damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning, heavy rain and hail are all possible as storms move through the region.

The threat extends across much of southern New England, including western, central, and eastern Massachusetts, as well as Cape Cod and the Islands. In the Boston area, forecasters expect there to be a greater chance of severe weather between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m

Any stronger storm cells could produce hail capable of damaging vehicles and outdoor property, while heavy rainfall could lead to localized flooding. Forecasters expect the rain and storms to subside by 10pm on Saturday as the system moves offshore.