Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine Face Icy Winter Weather Advisory as Freezing Rain Threatens Boston and Metro West
MASSACHUSETTS — A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from Tuesday night into Wednesday as a messy mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain spreads across parts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, creating dangerous travel conditions, especially during the overnight and early morning hours.
Based on high-resolution guidance and precipitation-type modeling, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing west of I-495, allowing freezing rain to accumulate on untreated roads, bridges, and sidewalks. Forecasters also warn that patchy icing is possible even closer to the coast, including Metro West and parts of Boston proper, before temperatures slowly rise later Wednesday.
Freezing Rain and Icy Mix Target Interior New England
Radar and composite reflectivity data show a well-defined band of precipitation pushing from west to east late Tuesday night. Snow dominates across northern and higher-elevation areas, while a transition zone of sleet and freezing rain sets up across central and eastern Massachusetts, southern New Hampshire, and southern Maine.
Key concerns include:
- Freezing rain accumulation west of I-495
- Sleet mixing into snowfall north of Boston
- Intermittent freezing rain possible in Metro West and Boston
Even light ice accretion can significantly increase the risk of accidents, particularly during the early Wednesday commute.
Temperature Profile Favors Ice Before Gradual Warming
Near-surface temperature maps indicate widespread readings in the upper 20s to near 30°F across interior New England overnight. While coastal locations hover closer to freezing, shallow cold air trapped near the surface raises the risk that rain will freeze on contact before warmer air aloft can fully scour out the cold layer.
By late Wednesday, a gradual warming trend begins as southerly flow strengthens, but icy conditions may linger into mid-morning, especially in shaded and elevated areas.
Travel Impacts Likely Before Improvement on Thursday
Transportation officials urge drivers to use caution, as roads may appear wet but be deceptively icy, particularly on:
- Bridges and overpasses
- Secondary and untreated roads
- Parking lots and sidewalks
Conditions are expected to improve late Wednesday into Thursday, when temperatures rise into the 40s, allowing remaining ice to melt.
What Residents Should Do Now
- Allow extra travel time Wednesday morning
- Avoid sudden braking on slick surfaces
- Use caution while walking, especially early in the day
- Monitor local advisories for updates
As winter weather continues to impact the Northeast, staying informed is critical. Follow ongoing forecasts, travel updates, and regional weather coverage at ChicagoMusicGuide.com, where we break down major weather events and what they mean for travel, events, and daily life across the U.S.