Massachusetts Faces Cold Blast and Freezing Rain Risk This Weekend

UPDATE: Massachusetts residents brace for a cold and blustery Friday, with forecasters issuing urgent warnings for potential freezing rain over the weekend. The National Weather Service reports temperatures will linger in the mid-40s across much of the state, with the Berkshires and northern Central Massachusetts struggling to reach even 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Gusty winds will exacerbate the chill, making it feel significantly colder throughout the day. In Boston, expect increasing clouds with a high of 46 degrees and a low of 29 degrees. Meanwhile, Hyannis will see a high of 45 degrees and a low of 31 degrees.

Conditions will vary across the state, with Pittsfield likely to remain cooler, hitting a high of just 40 degrees and a low of 22 degrees. Springfield is forecasted for mostly sunny skies, reaching 46 degrees during the day and dropping to 25 degrees at night. Worcester will have similar conditions with a high of 43 degrees and a low of 26 degrees.

As nighttime falls, temperatures across Massachusetts could plummet to the low and mid-20s. Coastal areas may experience slightly milder conditions, but residents are urged to prepare for a significant drop in temperature.

Looking ahead to Saturday, sunshine will greet the morning before clouds roll in by the afternoon. Rain is expected to begin Saturday night, spreading eastward. Authorities caution that residents in higher elevations are particularly at risk for freezing rain as the storm moves in, but overnight temperatures are likely to rise, reducing the potential for icy conditions.

By Sunday morning, the rain is projected to taper off as a cold front pushes out of the state. In a significant shift, temperatures are expected to spike into the 50s before plummeting into the 30s by the afternoon. Wind gusts could reach upwards of 40 mph later in the day, adding to the overall chill.

Stay tuned for updates as this developing weather situation unfolds. Residents are encouraged to take precautions and stay informed as conditions may change rapidly.