Storm Lee is wreaking havoc in coastal New England and eastern Canada, causing power outages and toppling trees. As its outer bands make landfall, the storm threatens hurricane-force winds, dangerous surf, and torrential rains.

In Massachusetts and Maine, severe conditions are predicted, and hurricane conditions could hit New Brunswick and Nova Scotia in Canada. Moving at a speed of 25 mph, Storm Lee has a maximum sustained wind speed of 80 mph.

States of Emergency Declared, Power Outages Reported

Massachusetts and Maine have declared states of emergency due to the storm. The heavy summer rains have saturated the ground, weakening trees and leading to reports of downed trees in eastern Maine. Tens of thousands of customers are currently without power from Maine to Nova Scotia.

Coastal Impact and Precautions

The coastal areas of eastern Maine could experience waves up to 15 feet high, causing erosion and damage. Strong gusts are likely to cause power outages. As much as 5 inches of rain is forecasted for eastern Maine, with a flash flood watch in effect.

Although some New Englanders seem unconcerned, it is recommended to take precautions and stay safe. Maine lobsterman Bruce Young, while considering the storm entertaining, has moved his boat to the local airport as a safety measure. Commercial lobsterman Steve Train from Long Island has hauled his traps out of the water but remains unbothered by the storm.

Canadian Impact

Ian Hubbard, a meteorologist for Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Canadian Hurricane Centre, believes that Storm Lee will not be as severe as the remnants of Hurricane Fiona from a year ago. However, residents are still urged to stay home and avoid the temptation of witnessing the storm’s power firsthand.

Historical Perspective

While destructive hurricanes are rare in this region, past storms have caused significant damage. The Great New England Hurricane of 1938 brought gusts as high as 186 mph and caused extensive damage. Hurricane Irene in 2011, although downgraded to a tropical storm, still resulted in over $800 million in damage in Vermont.