New England Weather Shifts from Warmth to Cold and Rain

BOSTON, Mass. — Following two consecutive warm days with temperatures reaching the low 60s, a cold front is set to sweep across Greater Boston and Southern New England, bringing cooler temperatures and rain this evening.

The change in weather is attributed to a northerly airflow drawing in frigid Canadian air beneath a robust high-pressure system. Temperatures today are expected to be 15 to 25 degrees colder than yesterday’s high of 63 degrees. Boston will hover in the mid-40s, while northern areas may not exceed the mid-30s.

“We’re expecting a mostly sunny day, but don’t forget your jackets,” said meteorologist Ken Mahan. “Highs will be considerably lower, prompting a significant swing in conditions across the region.” With high pressure in place, there will not be enough wind to exacerbate the cold.

As the afternoon progresses, cloud cover will intensify and light rain showers are likely to develop this evening. The rain is expected to move west to east, delaying significant precipitation in Boston until after the evening commute.

Light snow showers are also possible across Massachusetts as temperatures dip near freezing later tonight, with a coating of snow expected in certain areas, though road temperatures are likely to remain above freezing.

Thursday’s weather is predicted to mirror today’s, with highs again in the mid-40s and largely calm winds. The morning commute should remain dry, but clouds are expected to linger throughout the day, possibly obstructing views of the lunar eclipse peaking at 3 a.m. Friday, particularly in Northern New England.

In the more localized forecast, Greater Boston will experience colder highs in the mid-40s, while Central and Western Massachusetts will also see 40s with light rain showers likely during the evening. The Cape and Islands will enjoy highs in the low 40s, with rain showers moving in later tonight.

Rhode Island forecasts mid to upper-40s with a mix of sun and clouds turning to rain overnight. New Hampshire’s temperatures will only reach the upper 30s to low 40s with sporadic snow showers possible. Vermont and Maine may struggle to reach 40 degrees, with mainly sunny skies turning overcast by the afternoon.

As the weekend approaches, forecasts anticipate milder temperatures with highs reaching the 50s, marking a typical early spring pattern for St. Patrick’s Day weekend. However, a trough of low pressure rolling in may lead to significant precipitation starting Sunday night through Monday.

A developing weather system is expected to bring up to an inch of rain, particularly to areas south of the Mass Pike, especially Southeastern Massachusetts. We are closely monitoring this system, as wind advisories may be issued given strong winds will accompany the rain.

“Weather conditions could shift rapidly over the weekend, with milder air pushing through, but we will keep track of rainfall amounts and timing as Sunday approaches,” added Mahan.