Boston, MA – As dawn settles over the city, a silent weather hazard has taken hold across Boston. Cold, calm air and patchy fog have coated streets, sidewalks, and bridges with a nearly invisible layer of black ice, creating risky conditions for commuters and holiday travelers moving through Eastern Massachusetts this morning.
Temperatures remain close to freezing until 10 AM, allowing icy trouble spots to linger on elevated roads, shaded corridors, and areas where moisture tends to collect. With Thanksgiving travel picking up, the morning hours demand extra caution from drivers and pedestrians alike.
Black Ice Hazard Across Boston
The National Weather Service (NWS) Boston/Norton office reports that the combination of fog, freezing temperatures, and light winds has caused widespread slick patches across the region. These conditions have been especially noticeable on I-93, Route 1, and the Massachusetts Turnpike, where overpasses cool faster than ground-level pavement.
Meteorologists note that untreated sidewalks and side streets are also affected, giving early-morning walkers another reason to slow down and stay alert.
Timeline of Today’s Weather
The icy threat eases by late morning as temperatures gradually climb. By early afternoon, Boston is expected to warm into the upper 40s, with skies brightening and winds picking up to around 20 mph.
This shift marks the transition from a cold, slick start to a milder and breezier day—though the morning’s frozen patches remain the primary travel concern.
By tonight, conditions stabilize, setting the stage for a mixed Saturday and a pleasant Sunday.
What Meteorologists Are Saying
Forecasters emphasize that while this morning’s black ice is temporary, it’s still dangerous due to its low visibility and sudden slickness. One meteorologist noted:
“Black ice forms quickly and can be nearly impossible to see. Even experienced drivers should reduce speed and leave extra space between vehicles.”
Another official added that pedestrians should treat shaded sidewalks and stone walkways “as potentially icy” until temperatures rise well above freezing.
Key Facts for Today’s Alert
- Hazard: Black ice
- Timeframe: Until 10 AM
- Highways Impacted: I-93, Route 1, Mass Pike
- Wind Gusts: Up to 20 mph by midday
- Expected High: Upper 40s
- Risk Areas: Overpasses, side streets, untreated sidewalks
Broader Weather Pattern Heading Into Thanksgiving
While Boston avoids snowfall for now, national weather models suggest a more active winter pattern developing across the northern U.S. Between November 25 and December 3, some northern states could see 3 to 15 inches of snow as a deeper trough sweeps across the Great Lakes and Northeast.
Boston may remain quiet through the weekend, but experts urge residents to stay aware of shifting conditions next week. Winter-like cold could extend eastward, potentially impacting Thanksgiving travel for those flying or driving out of state.
What to Expect This Weekend
Saturday begins with a slight chance of light morning rain, though skies clear by afternoon, offering a cool but comfortable day.
Sunday brings crisp sunshine, perfect for early shopping, decorating, or short-distance travel before next week’s cooler push develops. For many residents, it may feel like the final mild weekend before winter settles in more firmly.
Five-Day Forecast for Boston, MA
Friday: 48/40 – Partly sunny; AM black ice risk; breezy later.
Saturday: 48/31 – Slight AM rain; clearing and cool.
Sunday: 43/35 – Mostly sunny; crisp NW breeze.
Monday: 47/33 – Sunny; calm and cool.
Tuesday: 49/40 – PM rain chance; travel delays possible.
Conclusion
This morning’s black ice serves as an early reminder that winter hazards can appear before the season officially begins. Whether walking, driving, or preparing for holiday travel, Boston residents should exercise caution until temperatures rise later today.
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