Winter Storm Warning Issued for Boston Area

Wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain expected to impact commutes

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A wintry system is moving through the Boston area tonight into Friday morning, bringing a messy mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect, with the potential for ice accumulation of up to 0.5 inches in some areas, making for hazardous travel conditions during the Friday morning commute.

Why it matters

Spring-like weather patterns can often bring unpredictable and dangerous winter storms, especially in the Northeast where the transition to warmer temperatures can be gradual. This storm has the potential to cause power outages, school closures, and travel disruptions across the region.

The details

The wintry mix will start as rain in southern New England, but as temperatures drop tonight, the precipitation will changeover to sleet and freezing rain, particularly in higher terrain areas like the Worcester Hills and Berkshires. Boston is expected to see around 1 inch of snow and sleet, along with a light glaze of ice. The greatest ice accumulation, between 0.25 and 0.5 inches, is forecast for the Berkshires, Worcester, and the Blackstone River Valley, which could lead to tree damage and power outages.

  • The evening commute on Thursday will start to see issues with sleet and rain in Boston.
  • Freezing rain and ice accumulation is expected to continue through the overnight hours and into the Friday morning commute.
  • The wintry mix is forecast to taper off by Friday afternoon, but some freezing fog or drizzle may linger through the midday hours.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for issuing weather advisories and warnings across the United States.

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What they’re saying

“The ice accumulation is pretty steady through the night there, and will make the Friday morning drive quite slick.”

— Pamela Gardner, NBC10 Boston Meteorologist (nbcboston.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updated forecasts and warnings as the system moves through the region.

The takeaway

This late-winter storm serves as a reminder that unpredictable weather patterns can occur even as we transition into spring. Residents in the Boston area should be prepared for potentially hazardous travel conditions on Friday morning and heed any weather advisories or warnings issued by local authorities.