It was a cold and snowy start to the new year across central and eastern Massachusetts. Several neighborhoods picked up a few inches of snow through New Year’s morning, leaving behind slick surfaces and icy patches as temperatures plunged.
As Friday gets underway, the focus shifts from snowfall to the intense cold settling over the region.
Icy Conditions and Dangerous Wind Chills Today
Anyone heading out early should use extra caution. With temperatures well below freezing, leftover snow on sidewalks, porches, and untreated roads has turned icy. Slips and slow travel are a concern, especially during the morning hours.
Strong west winds are making the cold feel even harsher. In Greater Boston, wind chills are sitting in the single digits this morning. Even by this afternoon, feels-like temperatures will struggle to climb out of the teens. Expect a mix of clouds and sunshine early, with brighter skies developing later in the day.
Cold Holds On Through the Weekend
The chill won’t let up as we move into the weekend. Both Saturday and Sunday will start with morning temperatures in the teens, while afternoon highs remain in the upper 20s to near 30 degrees.
Saturday looks dry with plenty of sunshine, offering a brief break from unsettled weather. By Saturday night, however, a fast-moving disturbance will pass through the region. This system may bring scattered snow flurries or light snow showers that could linger into early Sunday morning. At this point, little to no accumulation is expected, and no significant impacts are anticipated.
Better Snow Chance Early Next Week
Attention then turns to early next week, when a stronger system is forecast to move south from Canada. This weather maker is expected to arrive late Monday into Tuesday and could bring a more meaningful chance for snow across parts of Massachusetts. While details are still developing, some accumulation is possible, and residents should stay alert for forecast updates.
Milder Air by Midweek
After the cold stretch, some relief is on the way. By the middle of next week, temperatures are expected to rebound noticeably, with daytime highs climbing into the low to mid 40s. That warmer air will help ease travel concerns and melt lingering snow and ice.
