Weather

Severe Storms Possible for Mansfield Friday; Hazardous Weather Outlook Issued

Before the Fourth of July weekend officially kicks off, we'll likely have some natural fireworks in the sky today and tonight.

By Brian McCready

Patch Staff

The National Weather Service has issued a “Hazardous Weather Outlook” for the state of Connecticut Friday for the potential of some severe storms and much needed rain.

Find out what's happening in Mansfield-Storrsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

In southern Connecticut, the storms are expected after 5 p.m. and there may be periods of downpours when storms roll through. The showers and thunderstorm chances continue until around midnight. Up to a half inch of rain is possible.

In Hartford and Tolland counties the storms could begin as early as 2 p.m. and may continue off and on through the rest of the day. A half inch of rain is also forecast for the area.

Find out what's happening in Mansfield-Storrsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Here is a breakdown of the National Weather Service’s latest statement on the potentially severe weather.

Southern Connecticut, which includes all of Fairfield, New Haven, Middlesex, and New London counties:

“There is a chance for severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. The main threat is damaging winds. There is a small chance for large hail and isolated tornadoes…,” the National Weather Service writes.

Hartford and Tolland counties:

“Some strong to severe thunderstorms are possible this evening...while the greatest threats with these storms are heavy rain and localized damaging wind gusts there is potential for hail and a low risk for an isolated tornado,” the National Weather Service states.

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And once we get past that, nothing has changed about the sunny and spectacular Fourth of July weekend forecast.

Saturday: Sunshine, low to mid 80s.

Sunday: More sun and low 80s.

Fourth of July: Mostly sunny skies with temps in the low to mid 80s.

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