Fast Falling Foliage

Leaves on ground, Amherst MA (10/7/2013)
Photo by S. Vardatira

There's nothing like a windy day to remind us why this season is called "fall." And today is just such a day. With every gust of wind the air is bright with orange and yellow leaves, nature's confetti. The enormous pine tree in the woods out back is even shedding yellow pine needles, draping the grass and neighboring trees in a golden blanket.

If you haven't experienced this particular incarnation of fall, you're likely to have all afternoon, as a strong cold front (which also encompasses remnants of Tropical Storm Karen) moves across southern New England. This front has very strong jet stream dynamics which will likely bring a line of heavy downpours capable of causing pockets of flooding, heavy showers, and/or thunderstorms. An isolated weak tornado cannot be completely ruled out. The entire region, including Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties, is currently under a Wind Advisory. Prepare for sustained winds of 15-25 MPH with gusts to 45 MPH with isolated higher gusts particularly in any convective showers and thunderstorms. Be careful where you wander today. While falling leaves are harmless, falling trees are a whole different thing entirely.

Addendum to original posting (added at 3:11 pm):
- All of Western Massachusetts is currently under a thunderstorm watch until 10 pm tonight
- Tornado watch issued for Berkshire County until 8 pm tonight.

Stay safe out there!