A flash flood warning remains in effect for Suffolk County and parts of eastern Massachusetts following several hours of heavy rain early Thursday morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued the warning just after 8:00 a.m., citing rainfall totals between 2 and 4 inches across the region. Flash flooding has been reported throughout Boston and its surrounding communities, with additional rainfall expected.
In Suffolk County, including Dorchester and the City of Boston, widespread street flooding has led to hazardous travel conditions. Low-lying intersections, underpasses, and drainage-prone areas have been overwhelmed, and officials are urging residents to remain indoors and avoid nonessential travel.
The flooding has severely impacted traffic throughout the region. According to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), Interstate 93 is fully closed in both directions at Exit 3 in Milton due to flooding. A second closure is in place northbound at Exit 8 in Quincy. Portions of the highway near Furnace Brook Parkway had already been shut down earlier in the morning. These closures have contributed to significant regional congestion, with delays reported throughout the Boston metro area.
Public transit services are also affected. The MBTA Red Line is experiencing delays of approximately 25 minutes on the Braintree Branch due to flooding at Braintree Station. Commuter Rail service has been recommended as an alternative between Braintree and Quincy Adams. A separate power issue at Quincy Center is further complicating service on the line.
The flash flood warning covers northeastern Norfolk County, southern Suffolk County, and north-central Plymouth County. The NWS has labeled the flash flood threat “considerable,” citing the risk of life-threatening conditions due to rapidly rising water in creeks, streets, and underpasses. Rainfall rates reached up to 2 inches per hour at the height of the storm, and additional accumulation may worsen conditions.
Communities included in the warning area are Boston, Quincy, Braintree, Milton, Weymouth, Randolph, Stoughton, Dedham, and others.
Emergency officials are reminding the public not to attempt to drive through flooded roads, emphasizing that most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles.
