Mass. Braces For Temps In The 90s, Possible Thunderstorms

The calendar says spring, but temperatures in Massachusetts are expected to reach summer-like highs. Forecasters say temperatures could reach the high 90s in many regions of the state on Thursday and there is even a possibility of triple-digit temperatures inland. Violent thunderstorms are possible Thursday afternoon and evening, which might bring in cooler temperatures.

State emergency officials are warning residents to avoid strenuous activities, drink plenty of water and check in on their neighbors.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation is keeping several beaches and pools open for longer hours Thursday and Friday. The locations include Nantasket Beach in Hull, Revere Beach, Carson Beach in South Boston, and Horseneck Beach in Westport.

The city of Springfield, affected by last week's tornadoes, has set up air conditioned "cooling centers" around town for residents to get out of the heat.

Strong storms moving through Massachusetts knocked out power Thursday morning for thousands from the Berkshires to Worcester.

National Grid said more than 9,300 customers lost power as a line of storms moved west to east though the state. That had been reduced to about 6,500 as of 5 a.m. on Thursday.

Worcester was the hardest hit, with more than 4,800 losing power, while nearly 4,200 were affected in the Berkshires.

Tens of thousands lost power in the neighboring states of Connecticut, Rhode Island and Vermont.

Summer officially starts on June 21.