Snowy Skies and Arctic Air: Boston Braces for a Chilly Friday

Winter Returns to the Hub

As Bostonians wake up this Friday, February 6, 2026, the city is enveloped in a thick blanket of clouds and a biting winter chill. Lead meteorologists at boston.news are tracking a shift in the weather pattern that will bring light snow and plummeting temperatures as we head into the weekend. While the morning may start quiet, the atmosphere is priming itself for a classic New England winter afternoon.

Morning Forecast: A Frosty Start

The morning hours began with heavily overcast skies and a temperature of approximately 17°F. With humidity levels at 57%, the air feels exceptionally crisp. Early commuters can expect dry roads for the commute into the Financial District or Back Bay, but the "real feel" temperatures are significantly lower due to a light but steady northwest wind. Visibility remains high for now, though the heavy gray ceiling of clouds is a clear indicator of the moisture currently moving toward the coast.

Afternoon Outlook: Peak Temperatures

By midday, the mercury is expected to reach its daytime high of 28°F. While this remains well below the freezing mark, it represents the warmest window of the day before an Arctic front begins its descent. The afternoon will remain predominantly overcast with humidity hovering near 72%. Residents are encouraged to complete outdoor tasks or grocery runs before the late afternoon, as the chance of precipitation begins to climb steadily after 3:00 PM.

Evening and Overnight Alerts

The evening hours bring the highest chance for weather-related disruptions. A light snow is forecast to develop late in the day, with the probability of snow showers increasing from 20% during the day to 35% overnight. While total accumulation is expected to be light—averaging around 0.25 to 0.28 inches—the combination of moisture and sub-freezing temperatures will likely create slick spots on the Massachusetts Turnpike and local side streets. By late tonight, temperatures will fall to a low of 16°F, with wind chills making it feel like it is in the single digits.

Summary of Conditions and Warnings

• High Temperature: 28°F reaching its peak in the mid-afternoon.
• Low Temperature: 16°F expected overnight with a sharp drop as the Arctic front arrives.
• Snowfall: Light accumulation of approximately 0.25 inches; watch for patchy moderate snow late.
• Wind/Alerts: An Extreme Cold Watch is in effect for the upcoming weekend; residents should prepare for high winds and dangerous wind chills starting late tonight.

Keep the heavy coats and ice scrapers handy. Today marks the beginning of a notably cold stretch for the city, and while the snowfall may be manageable, the dropping digits are a stark reminder that winter is firmly in control of the Hub.