Strong Winds Tonight Could Knock Out Power

An intensifying storm system passing over western New England tonight could bring strong and possibly damaging winds to Charlestown, the National Weather Service (NWS) warned this morning.

The NWS has issued a wind advisory in effect from 9 p.m. tonight through 3 a.m. tomorrow morning, stating that the strong southerly winds will have the strongest gusts along the Rhode Island coast, Cape Cod and the islands, but Boston is included in the advisory area.

A wind advisory is issued when sustained winds are forecast to be 31-39 miles per hour, or gusts ranging between 46-57 miles per hour, the NWS advisory said.

"Winds this strong are capable of downing small tree limbs and branches, possible causing isolated power outages," the advisory said. "Driving can also be difficult, epsecially for high profile vehicles."

The forecast also calls for showers and possibly a thunderstorm overnight tonight, patchy fog after 10 p.m. and a low around 45.

Important Numbers and Information

The city's web site offers dozens of tips on how to prep your home and sign up for mobile/phone alerts regarding emergencies.

• Mayor's Office 24-hour Constituent Services Line: 617-635-4500
• Non-Emergency Police: 617-343-4200
• Non-Emergency Fire: 617-343-3415
• National Grid power outages: (800) 465-1212
• National Grid gas emergencies: (800) 233-5325
• Comcast: (800) 266-2278
• Verizon: (800) 837-4966 (VERIZON)