Boston woke up cool and mostly clear Monday, with Logan Airport starting the day in the low 60s and a light northeast breeze sneaking in off the harbor. Sunshine should nudge inland highs to around 74°F this afternoon, while coastal spots hang a few degrees cooler. The tradeoff for that pleasant start: a growing rip-current threat along east-facing beaches on Cape Cod and Nantucket, and a midweek setup that could bring a soaking to parts of the region.
Afternoon Coast and Beach Watches
The National Weather Service has posted a High Rip Current Risk through Monday morning for many east-facing Cape Cod beaches and Nantucket, with surf running about 3 to 4 feet and helping to fuel stronger currents.
Lifeguarded beaches are the safest bet. If you are caught in a rip current, do not try to swim straight back to shore against the pull. Swim parallel to the beach until you break free of the current, then angle back toward land or signal for help.
Midweek Storm Risk
Farther out, a midlevel trough teaming up with an offshore low is expected to boost shower and thunderstorm chances on Tuesday, July 28, and especially on Wednesday, July 29. Forecasters are watching for the potential of training storms and slow-moving downpours that could repeatedly soak the same neighborhoods.
We first flagged this pattern over the weekend, and the latest forecast discussion now points to higher confidence in heavier rain late in the period. If the wetter scenarios play out, localized flash flooding may develop in poor-drainage areas and during any longer-lasting downpours.
Plan Ahead
If you have outdoor plans on Tuesday or Wednesday, keep them flexible and line up a dry backup option. Build in extra time for commutes in case heavy rain slows things down, and stay alert for reports of standing water that could close lanes or smaller roads.
Boaters and small-craft operators should keep an eye on marine forecasts as winds and seas build later in the week, and beachgoers should follow lifeguard instructions and heed posted advisories.
For hourly updates and the full regional outlook, check the National Weather Service.
