Morning drivers in parts of southern Massachusetts found themselves in the middle of an unplanned water feature on Tuesday, as heavy downpours flooded roads, trapped cars and turned neighborhood streets into fast-moving channels. In Fall River, several vehicles sat half-submerged while emergency crews worked to reach stranded motorists and keep others from trying their luck.
Storms Swamp Southern Mass. Neighborhoods
As reported by NBC Boston, heavy rain produced major flooding in parts of southern Massachusetts, with the earliest and most intense storms rolling through Bristol and Plymouth counties during the predawn hours. Storms were in the New Bedford area around 6 a.m., pushing toward Plymouth, and the rain was expected to linger into mid-morning.
Warnings Remained in Effect
The National Weather Service had a flash flood warning in effect into the morning for Bristol and Plymouth counties in Massachusetts and Newport County, Rhode Island. The Taunton forecast office's hazard map showed the heaviest rainfall rates just outside Interstate 495, sliding north and east.
Road Closures and Submerged Cars
The weather service reported that Massachusetts State Police shut down Route 24 south to the Interstate 195 westbound on-ramp after water reached depths of up to 3 feet. Local crews said several vehicles were submerged on Plymouth Avenue in Fall River. NBC Boston captured early reports and footage from neighborhoods where water rose quickly, stranding motorists and prompting tow and rescue activity.
Turn Around, Don't Drown
Officials again urged drivers to steer clear of flooded streets. The National Weather Service Turn Around, Don't Drown campaign warns that just six inches of moving water can stall a car and two feet can carry one away. Floodwater can conceal washed-out pavement and debris, so authorities recommend putting off non-essential trips until crews can clear and reopen roads.
How To Check Conditions
Drivers are advised to monitor local alerts and state travel resources for real-time closures and lane restrictions. The MassDOT 511 site aggregates travel advisories and live traffic information for the region. Residents in Newport, Bristol and Plymouth counties were urged to follow local emergency instructions and avoid low-lying streets until the water recedes.
Local public-safety agencies said they were continuing to monitor conditions and would issue updates as crews assess damage and reopen streets. Officials stressed that residents should prioritize safety and stay off flooded roads while waters remain high.
