Thunderstorms, Downpours Possible Today In Massachusetts: NWS

MASSACHUSETTS — The state may be in for its first round of thunderstorms of the summer Wednesday, according to forecasts.

The storms could bring heavy downpours and gusty winds to a swath of the state from Worcester to Lowell. The storms will likely miss the Boston area, the South Shore and the Cape, according to the forecast.

"Dry across southern New England for much of the day [Wednesday]. Scattered showers and thunderstorms move in ahead of a cold front this afternoon/evening. Brief heavy downpours and gusty winds are anticipated," the weather service said.

The chance of precipitation is 85 percent or higher in communities like Worcester, Boxford, Lowell and Fitchburg around 6 p.m., according to the weather service.

Although summer kicks off Memorial Day weekend, the summer solstice won't arrive until June 21 — although that date doesn't prevent summer-like thunderstorms from rolling across the state.