Boston, MA – New England is bracing for wet and windy conditions through Thursday evening, with heavy rain and strong gusts expected to continue into Halloween night. Forecasters say the storm system will move quickly through the region but will leave behind lingering winds and cooler temperatures heading into the weekend.
The Weather System: Rain and Gusty Winds Move In
Meteorologists expect periods of moderate to heavy rain Thursday night, tapering off early Friday morning. Rainfall totals across the region will generally range between one and two inches, with some higher amounts possible south of Boston and in western Massachusetts.
The National Weather Service advises residents to prepare for localized flooding in low-lying areas and to use caution on the roads during the evening commute.
“The rain will move out fairly quickly, but the wind will stick around,” forecasters said. “Travelers should be ready for reduced visibility and slippery conditions overnight.”
By late Thursday, wind gusts up to 30 mph are expected across much of southern New England as the storm pushes through.
Ongoing Impacts: Halloween to Be Blustery and Cold
As the rain departs Friday morning, attention turns to the wind, which will shift from the west to northwest and strengthen throughout the day. Forecasters warn that gusts could top 40 mph in some locations, especially along the coast and higher elevations.
The strong winds will make it feel colder than actual temperatures, and residents planning to head out on Halloween night are encouraged to bundle up and secure outdoor decorations.
“It’ll be a chilly, windy Halloween evening,” meteorologists said. “Costumes may need a few extra layers underneath this year.”
Temperatures will hover in the 40s and low 50s, but the wind chill will make it feel several degrees cooler.
Weekend Forecast: Bright Skies but Lingering Gusts
The weekend brings a noticeable improvement in conditions. Saturday will feature brighter skies and cool, blustery weather, with temperatures remaining in the 40s and 50s. Early-day gusts could still reach 25–30 mph, gradually easing by the afternoon as high pressure begins to build.
Sunday is expected to be the calmest and most pleasant day of the stretch, offering seasonable temperatures and clear skies — a welcome break after several days of unsettled weather.
Background Context: Fall Weather Patterns Across New England
Late October often brings transitional weather to New England, as colder Canadian air masses collide with warmer Atlantic systems. This combination frequently leads to heavy rainfall and gusty winds, typical of the region’s late fall pattern.
Meteorologists say this week’s storm fits that trend but note that strong wind events around Halloween have become increasingly common in recent years. Despite the temporary chill, forecasters expect a gradual warming trend early next week.
Looking Ahead: A Calmer Start to November
After Friday’s storm and a breezy weekend, the forecast turns dry and quiet into early next week. High pressure will take control, allowing for sunny skies and slowly rising temperatures across much of New England.
By midweek, daytime highs could climb back into the upper 50s and low 60s, offering a mild start to November and a chance to enjoy some late-fall sunshine.
Conclusion
New Englanders can expect a windy, wet finish to the week before conditions improve over the weekend. While Friday’s gusty winds may impact Halloween plans, the return of calmer, sunnier weather will help the region dry out and reset heading into November.
Are you ready for a windy Halloween? Share your plans or weather updates in the comments below.
