Boston braces for evening snowfall as clouds thicken and temperatures hover near freezing Tuesday

Snow expected to develop late Tuesday, with travel impacts most likely during the evening commute

BOSTON — A fast-moving winter system is set to bring a period of snow to the Boston area Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, after a relatively quiet start to the day. Forecasts indicate increasing cloud cover through the afternoon, followed by snow developing later in the day and continuing into the night, a timing that raises the likelihood of slower travel during the evening commute.

Temperatures are expected to remain close to freezing, a factor that can complicate road conditions as precipitation begins. Early in the event, treated roads may initially appear wet, but conditions can deteriorate quickly once snowfall rates increase and temperatures slip below 32 degrees, especially on bridges, ramps and untreated side streets.

Timeline: when snow starts, peaks, and ends

• Morning into early afternoon: Dry conditions with clouds increasing; temperatures in the upper 20s to mid-30s.

• Late afternoon into early evening: Snow expected to spread into eastern Massachusetts, including the Boston area, with the most noticeable impacts likely during the commute window.

• Evening into overnight: Periods of steadier snow, with a risk of brief heavier bursts before tapering late night into early Wednesday.

How much snow is expected

Projected totals in and around Boston generally cluster in the low single digits, with localized variation across the region. Forecasts show Boston and communities near the Massachusetts Turnpike most likely to receive around 1 to 3 inches, while some locations north and west may see somewhat higher totals. Farther south, including parts of the South Shore and coastal areas, amounts are expected to be lower, with a greater chance of mixing near the immediate shoreline.

Wednesday outlook: lingering slick spots, then milder temperatures

Snow is expected to wind down by early Wednesday, Feb. 11. Even after precipitation ends, untreated surfaces may remain slippery into the morning commute, particularly where snow compacts or where overnight temperatures fall below freezing. Daytime temperatures Wednesday are expected to rebound to around 40 degrees, which could promote melting during the day and refreezing at night.

Key uncertainty: Small shifts in temperature and snowfall intensity can determine whether roads stay mainly wet at onset or turn slick quickly.

Residents planning evening travel Tuesday are advised to allow extra time, monitor changing conditions and be prepared for rapidly varying road traction as snow develops.