Boston, Massachusetts – A shift toward milder air is set to reach Massachusetts by Thursday, when temperatures climb above freezing and begin a mid-February thaw that could impact travel, snowpack, and daily routines across the state.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the 8–14 day outlook valid from Friday, February 13 through Thursday, February 19 shows a clear signal for above-normal temperatures statewide. Highs are expected to rise into the mid to upper 30s by Thursday and hold there into next week, accelerating snowmelt on roads, sidewalks, and rooftops.
Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and the Merrimack Valley all fall within the warmer-than-average zone, with overnight lows also trending milder. While the reduced cold lowers the risk of hard freezes, it increases the likelihood of slush and standing water, particularly during the morning and evening commutes.
Precipitation chances lean near to slightly above normal during this period, raising the potential for rain or a rain-snow mix as warmer air pushes in. Major corridors including I-90, I-93, and Route 128 could see slick spots where meltwater pools and refreezes after dark, especially on bridges and elevated ramps.
The warmer pattern is expected to persist into the middle of next week. Additional advisories or short-term alerts may be issued as precipitation timing becomes clearer and the thaw strengthens across Massachusetts.
