Boston, Massa. – Massachusetts is under a freeze watch as temperatures are expected to plummet in the Boston area later this week, ending one of the warmest starts to October on record.
Record Warmth Gives Way to Chilly Air
Boston has seen highs surpassing 80 degrees on three of the last four days, making it feel more like beach weather than fall. However, a crisp, chilly airmass is set to move into New England, bringing the coldest air of the season so far.
How Cold Will Boston Get?
On Thursday, high temperatures are expected to be 20-25 degrees lower than recent days. But the real chill arrives Thursday night.
With clear skies, dry air, and light winds, temperatures will drop sharply Thursday night into early Friday. Most northern and western suburbs of Boston are expected to reach 28-32 degrees around 6-7 a.m. Friday, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a freeze watch.
Even areas not officially under the watch, like southern New Hampshire and northern Worcester County, could still see freezing temperatures.
Frost vs. Freeze
- Frost occurs when water vapor freezes on contact with surfaces like grass or windshields, typically around 32 degrees. It doesn’t always harm plants.
- Freeze, however, is more damaging, affecting tender plants and flowers. The upcoming Friday freeze is expected to cause significant plant damage in areas north and west of Boston.
Protect Your Plants
Friday’s freeze is likely to be a “one-off”, with no similarly cold mornings expected for at least a week. To protect plants:
- Potted plants: Bring indoors Thursday night.
- Vegetation in soil: Cover with a cloth or blanket, water the night before, or add extra mulch around the base.
Climate Trends in Massachusetts
The growing season in Boston has shifted later due to climate change, with the first frost and freeze occurring nearly a week later on average over the last 50 years. Fall is now the second fastest warming season, trailing only winter, in the region.
Are your plants ready for the cold snap? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!
