Brisk Breezes and Brightening Skies: A Post-Storm St. Patrick’s Day for Boston

Morning: A Cold and Windy Start

Bostonians waking up this St. Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day will find a significant shift in conditions following the powerful storm system that lashed the region on Monday. Early morning temperatures are hovering in the crisp mid-20s to low 30s, a sharp drop from the moisture-rich air of the previous day. While the heavy rain and embedded thunderstorms have moved offshore, the city remains under the influence of a departing low-pressure system. Residents should be prepared for lingering wind gusts; the High Wind Warning that was in effect through early Tuesday morning is beginning to expire, but gusts could still reach 30 to 40 mph before 9:00 AM, making the morning air feel considerably colder.

Afternoon: Sunny Spells and Seasonal Highs

By the afternoon, the clouds are expected to break, giving way to much-needed sunshine. As the cold front pushes further out to sea, skies will transition to partly cloudy. For those heading out for holiday lunches or local celebrations, the high temperature is forecast to reach approximately 48°F, which is near the historical average for mid-March. Despite the sun, a steady west-northwest wind of 15 to 18 mph will persist, maintaining a biting chill throughout the day. If you are participating in outdoor activities, a medium-weight jacket remains a necessity.

Evening: Clearing Skies and Freezing Temps

The evening forecast looks favorable for those celebrating at local establishments, with skies turning clear and the winds beginning to diminish. However, once the sun sets, temperatures will drop rapidly. Expect the mercury to fall back into the mid-20s by late tonight. This overnight cooling may lead to some slick spots on secondary roads and sidewalks where Monday’s heavy rainfall or melted snow hasn't fully evaporated, so pedestrians and drivers should exercise caution during the late-night commute.

Impacts and Travel Advisories

While the worst of the weather is behind us, the legacy of Monday's storm continues to impact the city and the broader region:

• Travel Delays: Major airports, including Logan International, are reporting continued flight cancellations and delays this Tuesday morning. Travelers are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport as crews work to recover from the previous day's disruption.
• Wind Impacts: Though the damaging 60 mph gusts have subsided, isolated tree damage and lingering power outages from Monday night are still being addressed by utility crews in eastern Massachusetts.
• Precipitation: While the chance of rain has dropped to roughly 25% for the day, a few stray sprinkles or light snow flurries cannot be entirely ruled out during the early morning transition.

Overall, Boston will enjoy a dry, albeit breezy, St. Patrick’s Day, providing a quiet window of weather before the next system approaches later in the week.