Massachusetts – Steam rises from storm drains as biting wind cuts across empty sidewalks, rattling flags and stinging exposed skin within minutes. The cold settles deep early this morning, tightening its grip across eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island as commuters brace for dangerous conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until early afternoon. Wind chills have dropped as low as 17 degrees below zero, with actual air temperatures near five degrees in Boston. Gusty northwest winds continue to drive the cold, raising the risk of frostbite and hypothermia for anyone outdoors too long.
Travel impacts build quickly in these conditions. Dry roads mask hidden hazards, especially on bridges and elevated ramps where rapid heat loss can lead to slick patches. Drivers along I-93, the Mass Pike, and Route 128 are urged to slow down and keep extra distance, even without snow falling.
Sunshine offers little relief today. Highs struggle to reach the upper teens, and wind chills stay near or below zero through midday. Tonight remains clear and frigid, with lows near seven degrees before a slow moderation begins Monday.
The pattern starts to shift early next week. Monday stays cold but calmer, topping out near 28 degrees. By Tuesday, temperatures edge above freezing, and meteorologists are tracking a system that could bring light snow late Tuesday into Tuesday night. Accumulations appear limited for now, but timing near the evening commute bears watching.
Midweek brings a broader change. Highs climb into the upper 30s Wednesday, followed by steadier improvement into late week. Longer-range outlooks suggest above-normal temperatures by the end of the workweek, hinting at a February thaw after this Arctic blast.
Until then, limit time outside, layer up, and protect exposed skin. How cold did it feel in your neighborhood this morning?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Boston, MA
Today: Partly sunny, high near 18°F
Monday: Sunny, high near 28°F
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, chance of snow late, high near 33°F
Wednesday: Chance of snow, high near 37°F
Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 35°F
