Boston, MA – Massachusetts enters the holidays under an “equal chances” temperature outlook, but residents should still expect significant snow potential from December 20 through January 2, according to NOAA’s Week 3–4 Outlook. With both Christmas and New Years inside this window, the state may face multiple wintry systems capable of impacting holiday travel.
According to NOAA, Massachusetts is part of a broad region from Washington to New Jersey where temperatures show equal chances of trending above or below normal. While that does not indicate a strong temperature signal, late December in Massachusetts typically supports snow, especially at night or when passing cold fronts reinforce colder air.
For precipitation, Massachusetts also falls within an equal-chances zone, indicating likely near-normal totals. During this time of year, near-normal precipitation typically means snow or a rain-snow mix, depending on location. Forecasters highlight the potential for several coastal lows, which could bring moderate to heavy snowfall inland and mixed precipitation or rain-to-snow transitions along the coast.
Communities across Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, Brockton, and the Cape & Islands should prepare for periodic slick roads, reduced visibility, and changing precipitation types between Dec. 20–Jan. 2. Western Massachusetts and the higher elevations of the Berkshires are favored for more consistent snowfall, increasing the chances of a White Christmas in those areas.
Should colder air align with incoming systems, the state could experience both snowy holiday conditions and a wintry start to 2026.
Residents and travelers are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts for developing storm tracks and timing.
