Massachusetts is bracing for a change in weather patterns as an influx of cold air is expected to bring a couple of chances for snow this weekend, according to the latest forecasts. After experiencing nine consecutive days of above-average temperatures, Boston has recorded only 1.1 inches of snow thus far, a notable departure from what’s typically expected this time of year.
With temperatures set to plummet, Friday morning will see much of the Boston area shivering in the teens. The gusty westerly winds will make it feel even colder, akin to single-digit temperatures, representing a stark 30-degree drop from Thursday’s readings.
Saturday is forecasted to be a gray and chilly day with intermittent rain and snow showers beginning as early as the predawn hours and lingering until after sunset. Ground temperatures in the low to mid 30s suggest that rain may mix with snow, particularly within the I-95 corridor and southeastern Massachusetts. Areas north and west of I-95 are expected to see the best chance of snow accumulation, with forecasts indicating a general coating to 2 inches, especially in higher elevations.
Additionally, there are growing concerns about a potential coastal storm late in the weekend. A powerful system is expected to develop off the East Coast on Sunday, but weather experts are indicating that the track of the storm will be critical to determining its impact. Current projections suggest that the storm will track far enough offshore to minimize significant effects on southern New England, with less than a 10% chance of a major snowstorm. Should the Cape and Islands experience the storm’s northern fringe, light accumulation of about 1-3 inches may occur.
For those attending the Patriots vs. Texans game at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, the weather forecast appears relatively mild for January, with temperatures hovering in the low to mid 30s under partly sunny skies. Light flurries may be possible as fans exit the game, but the risk of substantial snow is very low.
Looking ahead, an Arctic blast is on the horizon next week, promising a much colder stretch with below-average temperatures for several days. While no significant storms are on the immediate forecast, the dramatic shift in temperatures suggests that winter is far from over in Massachusetts. Residents can anticipate a season more aligned with typical winter weather in the days to come.