If you’re looking at the weather forecast in Boston this weekend, honestly, it’s a classic New England mixed bag. We’re currently sitting in that mid-January stretch where the city can't quite decide if it wants to be a winter wonderland or just a damp, chilly mess.
Right now, as of Saturday morning, January 17, it’s a crisp 30°F outside. It feels a bit sharper than that, though—the wind chill is dragging it down to about 23°F. If you’re heading out for coffee or hitting the Seaport for a stroll, you’ve definitely gotta bundle up.
The Saturday Slush Factor
Saturday is going to be the "active" day of the weekend. We’re looking at a high of 42°F, which sounds almost balmy for January until you see the precipitation coming. There is a 35% chance of rain and snow during the day.
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It’s that awkward transition weather.
Because the temperature is hovering just above freezing, don't expect a beautiful, fluffy blanket of white. It’s more likely to be that heavy, wet slush that ruins your suede boots. The wind is coming from the south at about 12 mph, which is actually what's pushing that slightly warmer air into the Hub.
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Sunday and the MLK Long Weekend
By Saturday night, things quiet down. The temperature drops to a low of 31°F, and the clouds will hang around, but the chance of more snow falls to just 10%.
If you’re sticking around for the rest of the long weekend, Sunday and Monday (Martin Luther King Jr. Day) look a bit more stable. Historically, mid-January in Boston averages around 36°F for a high, and we’re staying pretty close to that curve. According to data from the Climate Prediction Center, we're in a period where the Arctic Oscillation is leaning negative, which usually keeps us in the "colder than average" camp, but this specific weekend is giving us a tiny break from the deep freeze.
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What to Actually Do
Since Saturday afternoon might be a bit drippy, it’s a perfect excuse to lean into indoor Boston.
- The Arts: The Boston Celtic Music Festival (BCMFest) is in full swing through Sunday. Places like Club Passim and the Somerville Theatre are way better spots to be than a slushy sidewalk.
- Family Vibes: The New England Boat Show is happening over at the Convention Center. It’s basically a giant indoor summer simulation.
- The Classics: If you do want to brave the air, the Frog Pond at the Common is still open for skating. Just maybe wear a waterproof shell instead of a heavy wool coat on Saturday.
Staying Dry in the Hub
Don't let the "rain and snow" label scare you off. Usually, a 35% chance means you'll see some flakes or drops, but it won't be a total washout or a blizzard.
Basically, the weather forecast in Boston this weekend is manageable. You just need to be smart about your layers. Synthetic fabrics are your friend here because cotton will just soak up that humidity—which is sitting at a thick 72% today.
Your Weekend Checklist:
- Waterproof Footwear: Seriously. The slush at the corners of Tremont Street is legendary for a reason.
- Layer Up: Start with a base that wicks moisture, then a sweater, then a wind-resistant shell.
- Check the T: If the "wintry mix" picks up, the MBTA can sometimes get a little temperamental. Check for delays before you leave the house.
- Embrace the Indoors: Saturday afternoon is the best time to visit the Museum of Fine Arts or grab a table at a cozy wine bar in the South End.