News Summary
Boston is currently experiencing a severe heat wave, with temperatures reaching 95 degrees at Logan Airport and even higher in surrounding areas. The National Weather Service has warned of high humidity, heat advisories, and the potential for thunderstorms later in the week. Mayor Michelle Wu has declared a heat emergency, urging residents to stay hydrated and take precautions as they face the oppressive heat conditions. A shift in weather is expected, with cooler temperatures anticipated over the weekend.
Boston is facing a significant heat wave, with temperatures soaring to 95 degrees at Logan Airport on Wednesday afternoon. Several weather stations across New England reported even higher readings, including 102 degrees in Acton, MA, and 100 degrees in Hampstead, NH. This extreme heat and humidity are set to continue for one more day before a noticeable weather shift occurs.
The National Weather Service has indicated a slight chance of rain in the morning under mostly cloudy skies, with thunderstorms and heavy downpours expected to develop by Thursday afternoon after brief midday sunshine. While the severe weather is anticipated to primarily impact areas north and west of Boston, there remains the potential for occasional showers in the city following the evening commute. Overnight temperatures are projected to drop to the upper 60s.
On Thursday, Boston can expect the temperature to hover around 90 degrees, coupled with high humidity levels leading to heat index values in the mid- to upper 90s. Consequently, heat advisories will remain in effect through 7 p.m. on Thursday, as the mugginess exacerbates the heat conditions. Dew points are anticipated to range from the low to mid-70s, raising concerns over heavy downpours and the risk of flash flooding, particularly in Western and Northern New England.
Weather Outlooks and Warnings
Thursday’s weather is expected to feature more clouds than sun, with a possibility of light morning showers. However, a dry stretch with sunshine is predicted before thunderstorms develop ahead of a cold front later in the day. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has declared a heat emergency for the city, effective from Wednesday through Friday, in response to the high temperatures and health risks associated with heat exposure.
Areas across Massachusetts, particularly central and western regions, face potential severe weather on Thursday, including thunderstorms and gusty winds. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, check on vulnerable neighbors, and remain alert for symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
Forecast for the Weekend and Beyond
As the heat wave subsides, Saturday’s forecast looks more promising, with expected highs in the mid-80s and reduced humidity levels. However, Sunday may bring a resurgence of higher humidity and a possibility of rain later in the day.
Additionally, throughout Greater Boston on Thursday, a mix of sun and clouds is likely, along with a low chance of morning showers and higher chances for evening thunderstorms. Forecasts for surrounding regions are as follows:
- Central and Western Massachusetts: Highs expected in the upper 80s to low 90s, with a risk of afternoon thunderstorms.
- The Cape and Islands: Highs projected in the upper 70s to low 80s, with partly cloudy skies and a chance of showers.
- Rhode Island: Anticipated highs in the mid-80s with potential scattered showers.
- New Hampshire: Forecast highs in the mid to upper 80s, with afternoon scattered thunderstorms.
- Vermont and Maine: Expect a mix of sun and clouds, with thunderstorms, particularly in Vermont, along with highs in the low to mid-80s.
City Resources
To help residents cope with the extreme heat, cooling centers and splash pads have been opened across Boston. These resources serve as vital options for those needing relief from the oppressive temperatures.
Local authorities continue to emphasize the importance of taking precautions during this heat wave, including staying hydrated and remaining aware of the health risks posed by high temperatures and humidity levels.
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Additional Resources
- NBC Boston: Boston Heat Weather Rain Forecast
- WCVB: Near 90 Degree Heat, High Humidity, Flash Flood Potential in Parts of New England
- Boston Globe: Boston Weather Tuesday – Heat and Humidity Build
- Boston Herald: Boston Heat Emergency – Blazing Temps, High Humidity to Plague Region Through Thursday
- NBC Boston: Medical Professionals Urge Caution in Extreme Heat and Humidity
- Wikipedia: Heat Wave
- Google Search: Boston Weather Forecast
- Google Scholar: Heat Waves Health Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Heat Wave
- Google News: Boston Weather News
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
