Tropical storm watch now in effect for coastal Massachusetts, including Boston

Now might be a good time to take in all the deck furniture and stuff, if only it weren't for the thunderstorms going on right now.

At 5:23 p.m., the National Weather Service made it official: Even if we don't get a direct hit from Lee, we can expect 20 to 30 m.p.h. winds, with gusts up to 50.

Hurricane Lee is forecast to pass offshore of southern New England on Saturday but its impacts will extend far from the storm`s center. Lee should bring rough surf, damaging winds, and bands of heavy rain to at least coastal areas of Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Bands of heavy rain, you say? On top of the bands of heavy rain we've been getting for the last week or so? Yep.

Bands of heavy rain may result in flash flooding Friday night and Saturday, mainly near the coast. Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are possible in a short period of time.

Also:

Now is the time to check your emergency plan and emergency supplies kit and take necessary actions to protect your family and secure your home or business.

When making safety and preparedness decisions, do not focus on the exact forecast track since hazards such as flooding rain, damaging wind gusts, storm surge, and tornadoes extend well away from the center of the storm.

If in a place that is vulnerable to high wind, such as near large trees, a manufactured home, upper floors of a high-rise building, or on a boat, plan to move to safe shelter.

If you live in a place particularly vulnerable to flooding, such as near the ocean or a large inland lake, in a low-lying or poor drainage area, in a valley, or near an already swollen river, plan to move to safe shelter on higher ground.