Boston woke to hazy skies and cool morning air on Saturday, July 18, 2026, with about 66°F and partly cloudy conditions at Logan Airport. Wildfire smoke drifting back into the region has given the sky a yellow-brown tint and could push fine-particle levels into ranges that are unhealthy for sensitive people. If you have asthma, heart or lung disease, or are older, it is a good day to limit prolonged outdoor activity.
Afternoon Storms And Gusty Winds
The National Weather Service is calling for a high near 83°F this afternoon, with southwest winds of 5 to 21 mph and gusts up to 33 mph on Saturday, July 18, 2026. The agency puts the chance of showers and thunderstorms at around 50%, with generally light total rainfall expected. Areas of smoke are likely between about 9 a.m. and noon before a first round of showers and a slight chance of thunderstorms around midday, and scattered storms may redevelop through the afternoon with brief heavy downpours possible. According to NWS Boston, new rainfall amounts should generally stay under a tenth of an inch, though localized street flooding could occur where any cells train.
Tonight And Sunday
There is a chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight Saturday, July 18, 2026, with a low near 70°F and southwest winds staying on the gusty side into the evening. Sunday, July 19, 2026, should be drier and more pleasant, sunny with a high near 79°F and northwest winds around 15 mph, making it the better day for outdoor plans. Offshore seas will be rough tonight but should ease Sunday morning as winds shift northwest.
Air Quality Alert And Beaches
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection has issued an Air Quality Alert for fine particulates through midnight Saturday night, warning that air may be "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" in parts of the state. Sensitive people should limit prolonged outdoor activity and consider staying in filtered or air-conditioned spaces when possible, according to MassDEP. The forecast office also highlights a high rip-current risk at south-facing beaches on Sunday, so swimmers should heed lifeguards and posted warnings.
What To Know For The Commute And Plans
Gusty southwest winds could make afternoon commutes feel windier than usual and may bring occasional reduced visibility in smoke or heavy rain. If you have outdoor plans, bring a mask if you are sensitive to smoke, be ready to change course for fast-moving storms, and avoid the water Sunday if you are not a strong swimmer. Boaters and small-craft operators should note that advisories remain in effect through parts of the weekend and should check the latest marine forecast before leaving port.
