If you were hoping for a mild and peaceful Valentine’s Day weekend, you might be out of luck. Massachusetts is gearing up for a brutal stretch of winter weather, bringing freezing temperatures, accumulating snow, and a stormy start to next week.
Forecasters warn that a deep freeze will settle in on Friday, followed by a winter storm moving in Saturday afternoon, which could make travel difficult across the state. If you have weekend plans, be prepared for icy conditions, snow-covered roads, and a messy start to next week.
FRIDAY: BITTER COLD SETS THE STAGE FOR A WINTRY WEEKEND
Valentine’s Day will feel more like the dead of winter as frigid air grips the region. Temperatures will struggle to reach 31°F (-1°C) during the day, with gusty winds making it feel even colder.
By nighttime, temperatures will plummet to 16°F (-9°C), making for an icy and brisk evening. If you have dinner plans or plan to be outside, bundle up—it’s going to be a freezing Valentine’s Day.
SATURDAY: SNOW MOVES IN, TRAVEL COULD BECOME HAZARDOUS
Saturday will start cold and cloudy, with snow expected to develop in the late afternoon. As the storm intensifies, Massachusetts could see snow accumulations between 1 to 3 inches (3 to 6 cm).
While this may not be a massive blizzard, even moderate snowfall can create slippery conditions on roads and sidewalks. With high temperatures hovering near 29°F (-2°C) and lows dropping to 25°F (-4°C), any melted snow could refreeze overnight, creating black ice hazards.
Drivers should be extra cautious, as untreated roads will become slick and visibility may be reduced.
SUNDAY: SNOW MELTS INTO RAIN, BUT SLIPPERY CONDITIONS REMAIN
Sunday will bring a slight warm-up, but not without complications. Temperatures will rise to 38°F (3°C), allowing snow to mix with rain throughout the day.
This combination of melting snow and rainfall could lead to slushy streets, ponding water, and icy sidewalks by the evening. As the temperature drops to 23°F (-5°C) overnight, any wet surfaces could freeze, making Monday morning’s commute tricky.
TRAVEL WARNING: SNOW, ICE, AND SLUSH COULD CREATE DANGEROUS CONDITIONS
With snow falling on Saturday and rain following on Sunday, road conditions could be dangerous throughout the weekend. If you must travel, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Check for real-time weather updates before heading out.
- Limit non-essential travel, especially during periods of heavy snow.
- If you must drive, reduce speed, allow extra stopping distance, and watch for icy patches.
- Expect delays—snow, slush, and freezing rain can all slow down travel.
FINAL THOUGHTS: STAY PREPARED FOR A COLD, SNOWY, AND SLUSHY WEEKEND
Massachusetts is in for a true taste of winter this weekend, with freezing temperatures, accumulating snow, and rain making for hazardous conditions.
If you have plans, be mindful of the forecast and be prepared for a messy few days. The worst of the storm should move out by early next week, but lingering ice and snow could still create travel headaches.
