Massachusetts weather is delivering a raw, soaked start across Boston this afternoon as cold rain sweeps over the city and fog hangs low along the harbor. Umbrellas bent in gusty east winds late this morning while slick pavement slowed traffic near the Zakim Bridge, Storrow Drive and Interstate 93. Conditions feel more like early spring than late May, with temperatures struggling near 54 degrees at Logan International Airport.
According to the National Weather Service, steady rain will continue through much of the afternoon and evening with rainfall totals between a quarter and half inch possible across eastern Massachusetts. Patchy fog may thicken again tonight, especially near the coastline and low-lying neighborhoods. Gusts near 20 mph could also reduce visibility along exposed roadways and harbor areas.
Memorial Day remains damp and cool early before conditions finally begin improving later in the day. Meteorologists are now tracking a dramatic warmup that sends temperatures soaring from the lower 50s today into the lower 80s Tuesday and near 88 degrees Wednesday across Boston, Cambridge and Quincy. That nearly 35-degree swing marks one of the sharpest warmups New England has seen this spring.
Residents should prepare for slower travel through tonight. Wet roads, standing water and low clouds may create delays near Logan Airport and along the Massachusetts Turnpike during heavier rain. Keep rain gear nearby and allow extra braking distance on slick pavement.
The broader Northeast remains trapped in an active spring weather pattern through Memorial Day as Canadian high pressure keeps cool marine air wedged along the coast. By midweek, however, warmer and drier air finally gains control across southern New England.
Long-range outlooks continue favoring above-normal temperatures heading into early June, signaling stronger summer warmth settling into Massachusetts after this prolonged stretch of chilly rain.
Five Day Outlook for Boston, Massachusetts
- Memorial Day: Rain likely early with patchy fog. High near 71.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny and much warmer. High near 82.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny and hot for late May. High near 88.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny and cooler. High near 74.
- Friday: Partly sunny with a slight shower chance. High near 68.
