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Boston Wakes in a Damp Gloom as Warmer Weekend Lurks

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Published on May 15, 2026
Boston Wakes in a Damp Gloom as Warmer Weekend LurksSource: Google Street View

Boston woke up Friday, May 15, 2026, under a low gray ceiling of clouds, with patchy fog and light drizzle turning the morning commute into a damp slog. Temperatures at Logan Airport hovered in the low 50s, sidewalks were slick in spots, and visibility dropped in a few neighborhoods until late morning.

Morning Fog And Spotty Showers

Forecasts from the National Weather Service Boston/Norton call for patchy drizzle and fog through about 10 a.m., followed by a chance of isolated showers between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Highs should reach near 54°F, with a light north wind around 3 to 10 mph. The odds of measurable rain stay low at roughly 20 percent, but the damp air and reduced visibility mean slower travel and a generally murky feel through the midday hours.

Out on the water, Small Craft Advisories remain posted on most local waters through Saturday morning because of an easterly swell and seas running 4 to 7 feet. Boaters are urged to take it seriously and plan cautiously.

Commute And Transit

The foggy start is landing right on top of planned MBTA work that began this week, including suspensions on the Red Line and Mattapan Line. That combination could stretch travel times. The City is urging riders to budget extra time and to lean on shuttle buses or the East Boston ferry where available, according to Boston.gov. Expect shuttle and ferry crowding in spots where trains are offline, and bring layers if you will be waiting outdoors in the damp air.

Weekend Warm-Up And What’s Ahead

The payoff for Friday’s gloom arrives Saturday, May 16, when skies clear for a sunny, breezy day with a high near 73°F. Sunday, May 17, looks even brighter, with sunshine holding and temperatures climbing into the mid 70s.

By next week, it starts to feel more like early summer. Tuesday, May 19, is expected to reach near 83°F and Wednesday, May 20, near 81°F, with some inland locations potentially pushing into the low 90s. As the heat builds, the chance of showers and possibly stronger thunderstorms increases by midweek.

Bottom line: keep a light jacket and compact umbrella handy for Friday’s spotty showers. Mariners should follow the marine advisories, and commuters would be wise to check MBTA alerts and the latest updates from the National Weather Service before heading out.

Boston-Weather & Environment