Boston, Massachusetts – An arctic cold front is expected to move through Massachusetts late Friday night into Saturday, bringing dangerous wind chills that may drop as low as 30 degrees below zero.
According to the National Weather Service office in Boston/Norton, the front will usher in well below normal temperatures across the region, with the coldest conditions expected Saturday night into early Sunday. Gusty winds behind the front will significantly increase the risk of hazardous wind chills, especially across central and eastern Massachusetts.
Forecast wind chill values Saturday night are expected to fall into the negative teens and 20s below zero in many areas, with some locations potentially reaching near -30 degrees. Bitter wind chills are expected to persist through at least Monday morning.
The cold will be felt most acutely along major travel corridors including Interstate 90 (Mass Pike), Interstate 93, Interstate 95, Route 128, and Interstate 84, where exposed conditions and wind gusts may intensify heat loss for motorists and pedestrians. While no widespread precipitation is expected, the National Weather Service warns that prolonged exposure to the cold could result in frostbite in as little as 10 to 20 minutes.
Saturday is expected to be the coldest day, with temperatures remaining well below seasonal averages even during daylight hours. Wind chills may remain below zero throughout much of the day, particularly in higher elevations and open areas.
Residents are advised to limit time outdoors, wear layered winter clothing, and ensure pets and vulnerable individuals are protected from the extreme cold. Commuters, students, and young workers traveling early or late in the day should prepare for harsh conditions.
The National Weather Service emphasized that wind chill hazards may continue into early next week as the cold air mass slowly moderates.
