Weather
Massachusetts Fire Weather: Fire Risk Elevated 11 AM–6 PM Friday
BOSTON, MA – Residents across eastern and central Massachusetts are being urged to use extra caution Friday as gusty winds, dry vegetation and falling humidity create an elevated risk of fires spreadi
By Natalie Brooks · 2026-10-30T08:54:36.461Z
BOSTON, MA – Residents across eastern and central Massachusetts are being urged to use extra caution Friday as gusty winds, dry vegetation and falling humidity create an elevated risk of fires spreading rapidly during the afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, a Special Weather Statement issued Thursday, Oct. 29, warns of elevated fire spread risk between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30.
The statement covers a broad portion of southern New England, including Boston, Worcester, Cambridge, Lowell, Springfield and surrounding communities in Massachusetts, along with portions of Rhode Island and Connecticut.
Wind Gusts Could Reach 35 MPH
Forecasters expect northwest wind gusts of 25 to 35 mph across the affected region, combined with minimum relative humidity values near 40%.
Dry fuels, including fallen leaves and vegetation, could allow outdoor fires to spread more quickly if ignition occurs.
The strongest wind gusts and lowest humidity levels are expected from late morning through midafternoon Friday.
The National Weather Service advises residents to exercise extra caution when using machinery, handling matches or disposing of cigarette butts.
Colder Temperatures Arrive This Weekend
Boston's local forecast calls for mostly cloudy skies early Friday, followed by gradual clearing and an afternoon high near 69 degrees.
West winds of 6 to 13 mph could produce gusts reaching 23 mph in the city.
Friday night will turn colder, with temperatures falling to approximately 42 degrees.
Saturday will remain sunny but cooler, with a high near 56 degrees.
By Saturday night, temperatures could drop to around 34 degrees under clear skies, bringing near freezing conditions to the Boston forecast area.
Sunday will rebound to approximately 61 degrees, followed by a warmer Monday with highs near 67 degrees.
Residents should avoid unnecessary outdoor ignition sources during Friday's elevated fire risk period and monitor updated National Weather Service statements.