Bostonians waking up this Christmas Eve found a dusting of snow, with forecasts predicting a swift end to the fall. According to the National Weather Service, snow is expected to cease before 11 am, keeping total daytime accumulations to less than an inch. Temperatures will hover near 34 degrees, and northbound winds are forecast to pick up by afternoon.
Travelers heading north for the holiday should, however, brace for a whiter Christmas. "Snow showers are moving through early on, but the accumulation is barely enough to coat the ground in most spots," reports NBC Boston. Regions from Burlington, Vermont, to Bangor, Maine, can anticipate between 5-8 inches of snow into the early afternoon, potentially impacting travel conditions.
Come Christmas Day, the skies above Boston will clear, bringing a sunny high near 30 degrees. This pattern of sunnier skies and milder temperatures appears set to continue throughout the week. According to the National Weather Service, by the weekend, mostly sunny conditions with temperatures reaching the high 30s are expected.
The recent spell of cold weather warrants a warning for those considering ice-related activities over the holidays. NBC Boston cautions, "Most are likely not safe, and with expected warming in the coming days, those that are marginally safe will become unsafe." The advisory extends to keeping pets away from frozen lakes and ponds that might look deceptively stable.
As the new year approaches, the forecast suggests a milder trend. However, an incoming storm system may disrupt the calm, possibly leading to a prolonged period of showers around New Year's Eve and Day. NBC Boston's weather update anticipates highs stabilizing in the 40s for several days, implying a degree of uncertainty lies ahead for those laying plans based on the weather. In the interim, Bostonites can take solace in the clear skies and prepare for a cool but pleasant Christmas respite.
