Massachusetts governor declares state of emergency as Hurricane Lee approaches

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey (D) declared a state of emergency Friday and requested that FEMA issue a Pre-Disaster Emergency Declaration as the Northeast braces for Hurricane Lee’s impact.

Healey also activated up to 50 National Guard members to aid in storm preparations and response. 

“I am declaring a state of emergency ahead of anticipated impacts from Hurricane Lee to ensure that the state can mobilize quickly to respond,” Healey said in a statement. “We’re grateful for the extensive efforts of public safety officials who are responding to emergencies to keep people safe.”

Hurricane Lee is barreling toward the New England states and is expected to bring high winds and dangerous ocean swells.

In an advisory, the National Hurricane Center reported tropical storm conditions and coastal flooding are expected to hit southern New England Friday afternoon and spread north through Saturday. 

“These conditions are likely to lead to downed trees and potential power outages,” the advisory said. 

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is encouraging residents to assemble emergency kits that include food, water, a flashlight and a radio. 

“We are prepared to operate the State and MEMA East Regional Emergency Operations Centers 24/7 for as long as they are needed,” MEMA Director Dawn Brantley said. 

Under the Stafford Act, a disaster relief and emergency assistance act, Massachusetts would be eligible for federal assistance to cover personnel, equipment, supplies and evacuation assistance costs.