Boston, MA – Temperatures will plunge into the teens across interior Massachusetts overnight, creating a window for black ice on I-90 and I-95 before sunrise Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston, dry conditions will hold tonight, but lows will drop between 15 and 25 degrees across much of the interior. In contrast, neighborhoods closer to the immediate coastline, including downtown Boston, will hover closer to 30 degrees as light south winds prevent a deeper freeze.
The sharp inland chill could refreeze leftover moisture on untreated roads, especially west of Interstate 495 and along the Massachusetts Turnpike through Worcester County. Elevated surfaces, including overpasses on I-93 and ramps connecting Route 128, are most susceptible to patchy ice between midnight and 7 a.m. Saturday.
While no precipitation is expected, the temperature spread means drivers traveling from milder coastal areas into colder suburbs may encounter sudden slick spots. Communities such as Framingham, Lowell and Fitchburg could see readings dip into the upper teens by early morning.
Motorists heading out before sunrise should reduce speed, increase following distance and remain alert for shimmering patches on pavement. Black ice is difficult to spot in the dark and can form even under clear skies.
Temperatures will rebound after daybreak Saturday under continued dry weather. No advisories are in effect now, but officials urge caution during the early morning hours as the coldest air settles inland.
