Boston started Saturday, June 20, on a mellow note, waking up to mostly clear skies and mid-60s temperatures. The day will stay seasonably warm with sunshine and a high near 76°F, but the afternoon will feel anything but calm once the wind kicks up. After about 3 p.m., a slight chance of spotty showers or an isolated thunderstorm develops, mainly north and east of the city, while much of Boston hangs on to dry skies.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
By Saturday afternoon, west winds will ramp up across the city, running around 15 to 20 mph with gusts near 30 mph. Some waterfront spots could see gusts up to 40 mph, so anyone near the harbor should expect some extra chop and swirling spray. According to the National Weather Service Boston/Norton, Small Craft Advisories are in place for many coastal and bay waters, which means boaters can count on rougher seas and higher gusts through the afternoon. The wind should gradually ease after sunset.
Spotty Showers This Afternoon, Quiet Night
A slight chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms moves in after about 3 p.m. Saturday, June 20, though most neighborhoods are likely to stay dry and see a good amount of sun for much of the day. Any passing shower will be brief and hit-or-miss. Tonight, skies turn mostly clear again, with temperatures dipping to a low near 60°F.
Heavier Rain Monday Into Early Tuesday
A stronger system arrives Monday, June 22, bringing a much soggier setup. Showers are likely during the day Monday, with heavier rain expected Monday night into early Tuesday, June 23. The National Weather Service Boston/Norton projects about a 70 to 80 percent chance that southern New England picks up at least 1 inch of total rainfall, with localized 2-inch totals possible in western Massachusetts and Connecticut. That kind of soaking will mean wet roads and slower commutes Monday evening, so plan on extra time behind the wheel.
Plan Ahead
If you are banking on waterfront plans, a backyard gathering, or Monday evening travel, it is a good idea to have a backup plan ready and expect gusty conditions this weekend. Boat operators should stick close to local marine advisories, and everyone should keep an eye on updated forecasts Monday as rainfall amounts come into sharper focus.
