A slow-moving storm system expected to dump 2 to 4 inches of rain across Massachusetts on Wednesday, July 29, raises flooding concerns along the Charles River in Needham and Dedham.
The National Weather Service Boston/Norton office issued a Flash Flood Watch covering parts of the state through 8 p.m. Wednesday, warning that the storm has the potential to be a significant and life-threatening flood event in urban areas and places with poor drainage. Rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour were possible during the heaviest bands Wednesday morning into early afternoon.
The storm already proved destructive. In eastern New York, Schodack recorded 9.22 inches of rain, and Albany International Airport logged more than 5 inches in two days before the system shifted toward New England, according to TechTimes.
The heaviest rain was expected to shift toward the Providence-Boston corridor, which includes Needham and Dedham, during the evening commute, according to the Cape Cod Times.
Charles River flooding a direct concern
The NOAA river gauge at Dover specifically identifies Needham among the communities where Charles River flooding can trigger road closures and local evacuations. The Charles River Watershed Association's flood model lists Dedham/Boston as one of four priority subwatershed areas for flood mitigation, noting that storms along the Charles can flood critical facilities including fire stations, hospitals, and schools in towns from Newton to Dedham to Franklin.
Both towns are vulnerable. Low-lying streets near the river and areas with poor drainage face the highest risk during intense rainfall.
What residents should do
The NWS advises residents in flood-prone areas to be prepared to take action if flooding develops. A watch can escalate to a warning as conditions change. Residents should monitor the NWS forecast page for updates.
The storm was expected to weaken Wednesday evening, with showers and thunderstorms lingering into Thursday, July 30. Conditions should improve into Friday, with mostly sunny skies and highs in the low-to-mid 80s forecast for the weekend.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health issued a separate cyanobacteria advisory on Friday, July 24, for the Charles River between Kendrick Street/Nahanton Street in Needham/Newton and Bridge Street/Spring Street in Dedham/West Roxbury. Residents should continue to avoid contact with the river water regardless of flooding conditions.
Emergency contacts
- Emergencies: Call 911
- Needham Fire Department (non-emergency): 781-444-0142
- Needham Police Department (non-emergency): 781-444-1212
- Needham emergency alert line: 781-474-0474
- Dedham Fire Department (non-emergency): (781) 751-9400
- Dedham Police Department (non-emergency): (781) 751-9300
