Severe Nor’Easter Approaching
Severe NorEaster could impact local Dartmouth waterways
Meteorologists are actively monitoring a powerful coastal storm system that could develop
into a Nor’easter late this week.
As of Monday, September 21, 2026, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a
Small Craft Advisory for local Dartmouth waters (including Buzzards Bay) until 2:00 AM
Tuesday, alongside a Gale Watch starting Tuesday afternoon for adjacent marine zones.
A deepening low-pressure system is forecast to churn off the coast. Current models
project it will bring heavy rain and strong winds to southern New England peaking on
Friday, September 25, 2026.
Because the storm aligns with a full moon this Saturday, astronomical tides will already
be high. If the storm tracks close to the coastline, Dartmouth could experience:
● Strong damaging wind gusts capable of causing power outages and damaging or
swamping boats, especially along the western shore, Nonquitt and Salters Pt..
● Significant coastal flooding and heavy rainfall
● Rough surf and beach erosion along the coast
The National Weather Service has issued critical marine safety updates for the coastal
zones surrounding Dartmouth, including Buzzards Bay. If you have a vessel docked at
Padanaram Harbor or are planning maritime activities, conditions are deteriorating
rapidly.
Active Marine Warnings
● Small Craft Advisory: In effect for Buzzards Bay until Monday evening. Expect
northeast winds of 15 to 20 knots with gusts up to 30 knots and choppy seas
reaching 2 to 4 feet.
● Gale Conditions Developing: While a formal Gale Warning hasn’t issued yet, the
risk of dangerous marine conditions escalates daily as the coastal pressure
gradient tightens ahead of the potential Nor’easter.
Recommended Safety Actions
- Secure Vessels Immediately: Double check mooring lines, fenders, and bilge
pumps before wind gusts top 30 knots on Tuesday. - Avoid Open Waters: Small craft, including kayaks and small recreational fishing
boats, should remain home or in protected harbors starting Tuesday afternoon. - Monitor Real-Time Swells: Keep a close eye on live radar and wind updates
directly via the NOAA National Data Buoy Center to track shifting tracks of the
low-pressure system.