Boston, Massachusetts – New England enters the heart of winter Sunday as the Winter Solstice arrives, marking the shortest day of the year and the beginning of the region’s coldest and darkest stretch—a critical period for homeowners and drivers preparing for holiday travel and early January conditions.
With extended overnight darkness and frequent freeze-thaw cycles, risks to pipes, vehicles, and daily commutes increase sharply across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. Even when daytime temperatures briefly rise above freezing, overnight cold can quickly return, stressing plumbing systems and creating icy conditions on roads during early morning and evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures across New England are expected to fluctuate near or below freezing through the weekend and into early next week. This pattern often leads to frozen or burst pipes, especially in older homes, coastal properties, basements, crawl spaces, garages, and buildings with exposed plumbing.
State and local officials urge residents to insulate exposed pipes, keep indoor thermostats set no lower than 55 degrees, and allow faucets to drip slightly during the coldest nights. Cabinets under sinks along exterior walls should be left open to help warm air circulate. Open flames should never be used to thaw frozen pipes; officials recommend using space heaters or hair dryers cautiously and only while attended.
Drivers heading into late December and early January travel are encouraged to prepare vehicles now. Officials recommend checking battery strength, tire tread, antifreeze levels, and windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures. Emergency kits should include blankets, food, water, flashlights, and phone chargers, particularly for those traveling through rural or mountainous areas of northern New England.
Cold weather remains New England’s most persistent winter hazard through January, especially during periods of overnight refreezing following rain or snow. Officials note that additional weather advisories and travel alerts may be issued as New Year’s travel increases and winter systems move through the region.
