Boston is about to get hit with a serious blast of winter weather, and not just once—twice. Two snowstorms are set to roll through the city back-to-back, bringing heavy snowfall, icy conditions, and freezing temperatures that could make travel dangerous and disrupt weekend plans. If you haven’t prepped yet, now’s the time because things are going to get messy fast.
Storm #1: A Sneaky Snowfall to Start the Weekend
Temperatures will hover around 35°F (2°C), which means some areas could see a little freezing rain mixing in by the evening. If you’re commuting or driving around after dark, watch out for icy patches, especially on bridges and overpasses.
By Friday morning, the snow will be done, but it’ll still be bitterly cold, with lows dipping to 19°F (-7°C). Anything left on the ground will freeze solid, making sidewalks and streets extra slippery.
Friday: A Small Break Before the Real Trouble Starts
Friday will feel like a brief calm before the storm. The sun will peek out, and temperatures will reach 34°F (1°C), giving people a chance to shovel their driveways and clear off their cars.
But don’t get too comfortable—this is just the warm-up act for what’s coming next.
Storm #2: The Big One Hits Late Saturday
The real trouble begins late Saturday night when a much stronger storm moves in. This one is expected to last all the way through Sunday afternoon and could dump 6 to 9 inches of snow on Boston, with some areas possibly getting even more.
Unlike Thursday’s storm, this one won’t just be snow. With temperatures around 30°F (-1°C), the system could bring a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, making for a dangerous, icy mess on the roads.
To make matters worse, wind gusts up to 30 mph could cause blowing snow, reducing visibility and making it even harder to get around.
By Sunday night, the storm will finally move out, but temperatures will plunge to 13°F (-10°C), meaning anything left on the roads will turn into ice overnight.
What Happens Next? A Freezing Start to the Week
Monday will be dry but brutally cold, with highs barely reaching 31°F (0°C) and overnight lows dropping to 14°F (-10°C). Another round of snow is expected to move in by midweek, meaning Boston’s winter woes are far from over.
Winter Storm Watch Issued for Boston
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Suffolk County, including Boston, from Saturday evening through Sunday afternoon. With heavy snow, ice, and strong winds in the forecast, expect possible power outages, difficult travel, and dangerous road conditions.
How to Prepare for These Back-to-Back Storms
- Clear Snow Early: Shovel and salt your driveway and sidewalks after Thursday’s storm, so you’re not dealing with solid ice when the bigger storm hits.
- Limit Travel: If you don’t need to go anywhere Sunday, stay off the roads. Snow, ice, and wind will make for treacherous driving conditions.
- Stock Up on Essentials: Get groceries, batteries, and emergency supplies now in case power outages happen.
- Bundle Up: With nighttime temps in the low teens, make sure your home is properly heated and you have extra blankets ready.
- Check on Neighbors: Elderly neighbors and those with mobility issues may need help preparing for the storm or clearing snow afterward.
Final Thoughts
Boston is no stranger to winter storms, but two in one weekend? That’s going to make things rough. The first round of snow on Thursday will be manageable, but the real winter wallop comes late Saturday into Sunday, bringing heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain.
If you have weekend plans, be prepared to adjust them. Travel conditions will be dangerous, and there’s a chance of power outages if heavy, wet snow starts weighing down power lines. The best thing you can do? Get everything you need now, stay informed, and be ready to hunker down.
