Boston rolled into Saturday, July 4, already feeling like a sauna, with temperatures in the low 80s at Logan Airport and sticky air across the city and suburbs. Forecasters expect afternoon highs near 96°F, with humidity pushing the heat index into the mid-90s to around 100. A Heat Advisory is in place through 8 p.m. EDT.
According to the National Weather Service, heat index values across southern New England could climb to about 95 to 102°F today. Officials urge residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible and keep outdoor activity in check during the worst of the afternoon heat. The City of Boston has activated cooling resources - including BCYF community centers, public libraries and select pools - to give people a place to cool down, per guidance at Boston.gov. City officials also recommend limiting outdoor work in the peak afternoon hours and checking on neighbors who may not have air conditioning.
Afternoon Storms Possible
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are most likely between about 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., with the best chance in the mid-afternoon. Any storm could bring a quick, heavy downpour or a brief burst of gusty wind. The main severe weather threat is expected to stay to the southwest, but an isolated strong gust and short-lived heavy rain could still disrupt outdoor events and fireworks.
Plan For The Holiday
If you are headed to parades, beaches or cookouts, try to schedule the most strenuous activity for the morning or evening, pack plenty of water and have an indoor backup in case storms pop up. Outdoor workers should take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spots and follow employer heat-safety plans.
What Comes Next
Sunday is expected to bring a much cooler feel, with highs near 78°F and more comfortable humidity. The first half of next week looks cooler but unsettled, with scattered showers and the possibility of heavier rain. Anyone with plans on Monday or Tuesday should keep an eye on updated forecasts as rounds of showers may move through.
Stay tuned to local updates from the National Weather Service and city pages, and follow public-health advice if you or someone nearby shows signs of heat illness. If symptoms are severe, call 911.
