Boston residents are waking up to a wintry blast that could make this a dangerous day for travel and outdoor plans. The storm will bring everything from heavy snow to sleet and freezing rain, creating a mix of slippery conditions that are expected to last well into the evening. With temperatures hovering around freezing and winds picking up, roads will quickly turn hazardous, and power outages could become a real concern. If you can stay home, today might be the day to do it.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM EST, warning of icy roads, reduced visibility, and possible damage from the combination of wind and ice. Here’s what you can expect throughout the day and how to prepare for the messy aftermath.
Today’s Forecast (Thursday, February 6): Snow to Ice—The Perfect Storm for Hazards
Morning: The day will begin with snow spreading across the region. By mid-morning, 1 to 4 inches of snow could accumulate, creating slick conditions on untreated roads and sidewalks. With temperatures at around 36°F (2°C), it will feel chilly, and the wind will make it even colder. Commuters should allow extra time and take it slow.
Afternoon: This is when the real trouble starts. The snow will mix with sleet and freezing rain, coating surfaces with a dangerous layer of ice. Cars, roads, and walkways could quickly become slippery. The wind will be breezy, reducing visibility and making travel even more challenging. A light glaze of ice, combined with wet, slushy snow, will create the perfect setup for fender benders and falls.
Evening: As temperatures dip to around 31°F (0°C), any moisture on the ground will start to freeze, creating black ice. The wintry mix will taper off by evening, but the damage will be done—expect icy roads and sidewalks overnight.
What to Expect in the Days Ahead
- Friday, February 7: Once the storm clears, sunny skies will return, but don’t expect an immediate improvement. Temperatures will stay low, with a high of 36°F (2°C), and wind gusts up to 70 kph will make it feel much colder. The evening will be bitterly cold, with temperatures dropping to 20°F (-7°C).
- Saturday, February 8: A calmer day with a mix of sun and clouds. The high will be around 34°F (1°C), but you’ll still want to bundle up. The night will bring a low of 27°F (-3°C).
- Sunday, February 9: Another storm system could bring 1 to 3 inches of additional snow in the morning before clearing up later in the day. The high will reach 33°F (0°C), but the night will be frigid, dipping to 13°F (-10°C).
- Monday and Tuesday: As next week begins, expect a mix of dry but cold conditions and more potential precipitation.
Why This Storm Is a Serious Threat
This isn’t just a regular snowstorm—it’s the combination of snow, sleet, and freezing rain that makes it dangerous. Snow by itself is manageable, but when freezing rain coats everything in a layer of ice, even short trips on foot or by car become risky. The biggest threats today include:
- Icy Roads: As the snow transitions to sleet and freezing rain, untreated surfaces will quickly become slick. Driving will be difficult, especially on bridges and overpasses, which freeze faster than regular roads.
- Power Outages: The combination of ice and wind could cause tree limbs to snap and power lines to come down. If you live in an area prone to outages, charge your devices and have flashlights, blankets, and non-perishable food ready.
- Black Ice Tonight: Even after the storm passes, refreezing is a major concern. Any slush or moisture left behind will harden into black ice, which is nearly invisible and extremely dangerous.
How to Prepare and Stay Safe
- Stay Off the Roads if You Can: If your travel isn’t essential, consider staying home until the storm passes and roads are treated.
- Drive with Caution: If you must drive, reduce your speed, allow extra stopping distance, and avoid sudden braking. Use headlights to improve visibility, especially during periods of reduced visibility in the afternoon.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Charge all your devices in the morning, and make sure you have batteries, flashlights, and extra blankets on hand.
- Dress Warmly: The wind will make it feel much colder, so bundle up in layers, gloves, hats, and waterproof boots if you need to be outside.
- Check on Neighbors: If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbors, check in on them to make sure they have everything they need, especially if the power goes out.
What to Expect After the Storm
Once the wintry mix stops, the freezing temperatures will turn any remaining slush into ice, creating hazardous conditions for Friday morning commuters. Even though the skies will clear, the wind will make it feel brutally cold, and untreated roads will remain slippery.
The weekend brings some relief, but another potential round of snow and rain could arrive on Sunday, keeping things icy into next week. It’s a reminder that winter in Boston is far from over—this is just one of many storms the city could face this season.
The Bottom Line
This winter storm isn’t one to take lightly. With snow, sleet, and freezing rain all in the mix, travel will be dangerous, and power outages could leave some without heat. The best advice? Stay home if you can, stay warm, and be ready for icy conditions to linger into Friday morning. Boston’s weather may be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can navigate this storm safely.
