Boston and surrounding areas brace for a dynamic weather pattern this week, with everything from sleet and rain to brisk winds and potential snowstorms in the mix. The National Weather Service (NWS) cautions of a 100% chance of rain, transitioning from sleet, expected today with a high near 39 degrees and an east wind blowing at 11 to 18 mph. "Rain, possibly mixed with sleet before 8am, then rain after 10am. Patchy fog before 8am, then patchy fog after 10am," states the NWS forecast obtained from weather.gov.
Tonight, rain is predicted to continue, mainly before 9 pm. The temperatures are expected to dip down, coming in low around 21, with the south wind shifting westward and gaining strength with potential gusts as high as 39 mph. Over the course of Washington's Birthday and following days, the weather is slated to clear up, presenting mostly sunny skies, though still accompanied by chilly and breezy conditions. "Mostly sunny, with a high near 26. Breezy, with a west wind 21 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 47 mph," reports the NWS.
This Sunday’s storm transition isn't the only concern this week. NBC Boston warns of a fast-approaching cold front that could bring wind gusts of up to 50 mph tomorrow, raising alarms for power outages and hazardous conditions, particularly inland over Worcester County. "A strong cold front will sweep through, rapidly dropping temperatures into the 20s and causing winds to pick up," NBC Boston reported in an article on nbcboston.com. They note that this shift will quickly freeze any residual moisture, making tomorrow’s commute particularly slick.
Advisories have also been issued. "Roads, especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous," warns an alert from the National Weather Service (forecast.weather.gov). A Wind Advisory is in effect from 7 PM today to 7 PM tomorrow, as west winds of 15 to 25 mph could bring gusts of up to 50 mph, posing risks of fallen tree limbs and potential power outages. Bostonians should prepare for these conditions and secure any loose items that could be carried away by the wind.
The week preludes to a possibly significant snow event projected for Thursday into Friday, contingent on the storm's trajectory. As the week unfolds, updates will delineate the precise nature of this suggested snowfall. For now, residents should stay informed, ensure that their vehicles are equipped for winter driving, and make arrangements for any necessary alterations to their weekday routines due to the forthcoming turbulent weather conditions.
