Severe Storms Leave Widespread Power Outages Across Massachusetts as Eversource Works to Restore Service

May 20, 2026 — BOSTON, MA — Severe thunderstorms swept through Massachusetts on Tuesday evening, knocking out power for thousands of residents and causing damage to homes, vehicles, and infrastructure. As of Wednesday morning, utility provider Eversource reported ongoing efforts to restore service, with crews working around the clock to clear downed trees and repair power lines in Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Officials urge patience as recovery continues.

— ### Storm Impact: Outages and Damage Across the Commonwealth The storms brought destructive winds and scattered showers, leading to widespread power disruptions. While exact numbers were still being compiled by state emergency agencies, preliminary reports indicated that tens of thousands of customers remained without electricity as of Wednesday morning. The hardest-hit regions included: – Western Massachusetts (e.g., Berkshire County) – Central Massachusetts (e.g., Worcester County) – Parts of the Greater Boston area Residents reported downed branches, damaged roofs, and flooded basements, with some areas experiencing localized flooding due to heavy rainfall. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts advised residents to check for outages via Eversource’s real-time outage map and follow safety guidelines if trapped by flooding. — ### Eversource’s Response: Crews Deployed to Restore Power Eversource, the primary utility provider for the affected regions, activated its emergency response teams immediately after the storms. As of Wednesday, the company reported: – Over 500 lineworkers deployed across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire. – Tree-trimming crews working in high-risk areas to prevent future outages. – Estimated restoration timeline: Varies by location, with some areas expected to see power returned by late Wednesday, while others may face delays due to extensive damage. The company urged customers to:

• Sign up for Outage Alerts via text, email, or phone for updates.
• Avoid downed power lines and report hazards to 1-800-286-2929.
• Conserve energy if outages persist (e.g., unplug non-essential appliances).

— ### Safety Precautions: What Residents Should Know With storms often bringing secondary hazards, state officials emphasized the following safety measures: – Flooded Roads: Never attempt to drive through flooded areas—just 6 inches of moving water can sweep away a vehicle (MassDOT). – Downed Power Lines: Assume any downed line is live. Report it immediately and stay at least 30 feet away. – Generators: Only use portable generators outdoors and never indoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. – Food Safety: Discard perishable foods if refrigerators were unplugged for more than 4 hours. For emergency assistance, residents are advised to contact their local emergency management office or dial 2-1-1 for non-life-threatening inquiries. — ### Long-Term Recovery: Preparing for Future Storms Massachusetts has experienced an uptick in severe weather events in recent years, prompting discussions about infrastructure resilience. Key steps being considered include: – Enhanced Tree Trimming Programs: Proactive measures to reduce outage risks during storms. – Microgrid Investments: Localized power grids that can operate independently during widespread outages. – Community Preparedness: Expanded public education on storm safety and emergency kits. Governor Maura Healey (D) has directed state agencies to coordinate with Eversource and municipal officials to accelerate recovery efforts. “Our first priority is ensuring the safety of residents, but we’re also looking at how we can build back stronger to withstand future storms,” Healey stated in a press release earlier this week. — ### FAQ: Storm Outages and Recovery

— ### Key Takeaways – Immediate Impact: Severe storms caused widespread power outages in Massachusetts, with Eversource leading restoration efforts. – Safety First: Flooding, downed power lines, and generator risks remain top concerns—follow official guidelines. – Recovery Timeline: Varies by location. check Eversource’s outage map for updates. – Long-Term Focus: State officials are evaluating infrastructure upgrades to improve resilience against future storms. As crews continue their work, residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and prepare for potential delays in service. For the latest updates, follow Mass.gov and Eversource’s storm resources. —