Boston, Massachusetts – A significant change in the weather pattern is set to impact Massachusetts on Friday, bringing heavy rain, powerful wind gusts, and rapidly rising temperatures after weeks of persistent cold. Forecasters warn that the combination of soaking rainfall and strong southerly winds could lead to localized flooding, downed trees, and scattered power outages, especially across central and eastern parts of the state.
A Dramatic Shift After Weeks of Cold
The first half of December has been unusually cold across Massachusetts. Fifteen of the first 16 days recorded below-average temperatures, marking the coldest start to December in Boston in more than 25 years. That trend ends abruptly heading into Friday.
Temperatures will climb into the upper 40s on Thursday, then surge into the upper 50s on Friday, the warmest readings since November. While the milder air may feel welcome, it comes with notable risks as an active storm system moves through New England.
What’s Driving This Storm System
The storm responsible for Friday’s weather originated in the Pacific Northwest and is sweeping eastward across the country. As it moves, it is tapping into additional moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, increasing the potential for heavy rainfall by the time it reaches the Northeast.
This setup is classic for widespread rain combined with strong winds, especially when warmer air surges northward ahead of a fast-moving cold front.
Rain Timeline Across Massachusetts
Rain is expected to arrive during the Friday morning commute, beginning in western Massachusetts and spreading eastward.
Between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., rain will overspread the entire state, including the Greater Boston area. Conditions will deteriorate quickly as rainfall intensifies.
The heaviest rain is forecast from late morning through mid-afternoon, when downpours could be briefly intense. Meteorologists are also watching for the possibility of embedded thunderstorms, which could locally enhance rainfall and wind gusts.
Rain should begin moving offshore between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., leading to a drier but windy evening commute.
Total rainfall amounts are expected to range from 0.5 to 1.5 inches, making this likely the wettest system of the month for much of Massachusetts.
Wind Could Be the Biggest Impact
While the rain will be disruptive, strong winds may pose the greatest risk on Friday. Southerly wind gusts are forecast to reach 40 to 60 miles per hour across much of central and eastern Massachusetts.
The National Weather Service has already issued a High Wind Watch for the Cape and Islands, and forecasters say the alert could expand farther inland as confidence increases.
With winds of this strength, residents should prepare for:
- Downed tree limbs and weakened trees
- Isolated to scattered power outages
- Difficult travel, especially for high-profile vehicles
- Hazardous conditions along the coast
Winds will gradually shift to the west Friday night and remain gusty into early Saturday, though at lower speeds than during the peak of the storm.
Snowpack Expected to Disappear
Another notable impact will be the rapid loss of snow cover across central and southern New England. The combination of warm temperatures, heavy rain, and gusty winds will melt and wash away most existing snow.
By Saturday morning, snow in southern New England is expected to be limited to shaded areas and plowed parking lot piles.
However, higher elevations in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine should retain much of their snowpack, as colder air lingers farther north and at higher terrain.
What This Means for Travel and Safety
Residents are encouraged to take precautions ahead of Friday’s storm:
- Secure outdoor decorations, trash bins, and loose objects
- Avoid parking under large trees where possible
- Allow extra travel time during the morning and midday hours
- Stay alert for localized flooding on roadways
Those living along the coast should also monitor marine conditions, as strong winds can lead to rough seas and minor coastal impacts.
Is a White Christmas Still Possible?
Despite Friday’s washout, winter may not be finished just yet. Forecast models are hinting at another system next week, potentially around Tuesday or Wednesday, that could bring light snow back to parts of Massachusetts.
While confidence remains low this far out, it does leave open a small possibility of snow on the ground by December 25. Forecasters will be watching upcoming model runs closely in the days ahead.
Final Outlook
Friday’s storm marks a sharp but temporary departure from winter’s grip, delivering heavy rain, strong winds, and spring-like warmth to Massachusetts. While conditions will improve by Friday evening, lingering wind impacts could extend into early Saturday.
Residents should stay weather-aware and prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
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