MA Governor Activates National Guard Ahead Of Storm

BOSTON, MA — The Massachusetts Governor announced he has activated the National Guard to help with the storm that is expected to bring heavy flooding with rain heavy wind and snow, worse than the January 4 storm that flooded coastal areas homes and destroyed cars parked near the water.

"We fully expect the next 48 hours to be particularly challenging along the coast," said Governor Charlie Baker during a press conference Thursday afternoon. "People need to take this very seriously."

There is a major long term storm approaching Friday into Saturday with "astronomically high tides," as much as 35 foot seas, with North East hurricane force winds and heavy rain turning to snow.

Baker warned that the Seaport District, North End and Morrisey Blvd would likely see flooding sometime Friday. He said think about what happened on January 4 during that storm, referencing photos and video of cars flooding and parts of the city flooding. Expect that and worse, he said. "We're expecting to see more severe flooding issues here than we did on the Jan. 4 storm."

Crews are installing something called an "aqua fence" in the Seaport in an effort to protect the area from flooding.

"The combination of storm surge and astronomically high tides, means a significant amount of that water will not recede between tides," said Baker. "It's possible we will see homes severely damaged and in some cases maybe even destroyed."

Massachusetts Guard officials said 200 soldiers and airmen and more than 30 vehicles will be available to respond to high water rescue needs starting Thursday.

Baker encouraged anyone who was recommended to evacuate, to do so Friday morning and noted they might not be able to return until Sunday.

"If you are in one of these typically effected areas please do not stay," he said.

The ferry service will not run Friday, because the coastal area will be too dangerous according to MassDOT.

Dangerous high winds may affect air travel. A number of airlines have announced they may wave change orders, according to MassDOT.

Officials said they expected to see areas with up to 5 inches of rain and pour drainage particularly in South East Massachusetts. They said folks should not drive through flooded streets.

A number of school districts have canceled school for Friday, including Marshfield, Scituate and Hull.

Previously on Patch:

Mass Coastal Flooding happening Soon

Breaking news. More to come.

Photo of a Boston street flooded and rescue courtesy police and fire.