Blowin’ in the wind: Storm downs trees, bridge closed

Nov 30, 2020

Padanaram Bridge has been closed and trees, limbs, and wires are down all over Dartmouth as a high wind warning remains in effect for most of Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

According to the National Weather Service, from the afternoon of Nov. 30 residents can expect winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 60 mph through 1 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 1.

The advisory notes that “Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines” potentially causing power outages and difficulty traveling, especially for high profile vehicles.

Trees and power lines have already started to come down around town, and Dartmouth Police pushed out a tip411 alert to residents stating that Padanaram Bridge will be “closed to traffic due to high tide causing a hazard” to motorists.

The warning comes as the National Weather Service has also issued a Coastal Hazard Message for southern Bristol County noting that minor splashover may occur at high tide, just before 8 p.m. on Nov. 30.

Waves of around two feet higher than normal are expected, according to the advisory, which remains in effect until 10 p.m.

Impacts may include minor beach erosion from rough surf and “some water on low lying roads and property,” the warning notes.

It is unclear when the bridge will reopen.

“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches,” stated the NWS wind advisory. “If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.”