Boston, Massachusetts – A hazy skyline is greeting Boston this morning, and the air may not be as clean as it looks. Wildfire smoke drifting into southern New England is creating reduced air quality, while increasing heat and humidity set the stage for thunderstorms that could interrupt travel later today.
According to the National Weather Service and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, an Air Quality Alert remains in effect through midnight because elevated fine particle pollution from Canadian wildfire smoke may reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. Children, older adults and anyone with asthma, heart or lung disease should limit prolonged outdoor activity.
Temperatures will climb to around 84 degrees this afternoon as southwest winds increase to 8 to 11 mph, with gusts reaching 31 mph. A 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms develops after 1 p.m. While severe weather is not expected to be widespread, any stronger storm could produce frequent lightning, gusty winds and brief heavy rainfall. An isolated tornado cannot be entirely ruled out in stronger summer thunderstorms, but the primary hazards remain lightning, localized downpours and wind.
Drivers along Interstates 90, 93 and Route 128 should prepare for changing visibility from smoke and rain, especially during the afternoon and evening. Wet pavement and sudden downpours may slow traffic. If you have outdoor plans, keep a close eye on the sky and have an indoor backup.
Sunday brings a welcome break with sunshine and a high near 79 degrees. Monday stays sunny before temperatures warm again Tuesday with a high around 83 degrees and another chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Additional showers and storms are expected by midweek.
The Climate Prediction Center continues to favor above-normal temperatures across the Northeast during the 6-to-10-day outlook, suggesting summer warmth will continue into late next week.
If you’re heading outside today, consider checking local air quality conditions before spending extended time outdoors. Are skies hazy where you live? Share what you’re seeing across eastern Massachusetts.
Five-Day Forecast for Boston, Massachusetts
- Sunday: Sunny. High 79°F, Low 61°F.
- Monday: Sunny. High 79°F, Low 64°F.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny with a 30% chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 83°F, Low 69°F.
- Wednesday: Showers likely with thunderstorms possible after 2 p.m. High 85°F, Low 67°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny with a 30% chance of showers. High 84°F, Low 66°F.
