BOSTON — Forty days of dryness end Friday morning. Rain arrives between 6 and 8 a.m. EDT.
The streak, one of the longest on record for the city, breaks as scattered showers push in from the west. WCVB meteorologist David Williams confirms the timing.
The morning commute gets steady rain. A brief lull follows around midday. Heavier showers return by early afternoon.
Accumulation totals 0.25 to 0.5 inches across Greater Boston. Enough to soak dry ground. Not enough to flood.
By 4 p.m. Friday, rain tapers. Partial sunshine returns. Clouds linger into the evening.
The weekend stays unsettled. Saturday afternoon is the window.
| Timeframe | Condition | Precipitation Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Fri 6–8 AM | Steady showers | High |
| Fri midday | Brief lull | Moderate |
| Fri early PM | Heavier band | High |
| Fri 4 PM | Tapering, partial sun | Low |
| Sat daytime | Mostly dry, increasing clouds | Low |
| Sat after 8 PM | Rain returns | High |
| Sun 11 AM–4 PM | Scattered showers, possible storms | Highest coverage |
| Sun evening | Cold front clears | Diminishing |
Temperatures hold near seasonal norms. Highs near 78°F. Lows near 62°F. Humidity rises. It will feel muggy.
Sunday brings scattered showers and possible thunderstorms. Peak coverage between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. A cold front sweeps east Sunday evening, ending the unsettled stretch.
Outdoor events? Saturday afternoon. Picnics, sports, festivals — rain holds off until 8 p.m.
Beach plans? Rough surf and rip current risk increase Sunday. Onshore winds. Avoid swimming during shower periods.
Travel? Wet roads Friday morning and Sunday midday. Allow extra time. Check wiper blades.
Gardeners get relief. The 40-day dry spell stressed soil. Consider collecting rainwater.
Monday and Tuesday turn drier and sunnier. Highs reach the low 80s. Another low-pressure system may bring showers by Thursday or Friday.
Boston weather shifts to a more active pattern. The record dry stretch is over. Plan outdoor activities for Saturday afternoon. Stay alert Sunday.
Check radar before making plans. Follow local meteorologists for updates.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: When exactly will the rain start in Boston?
- A: Rain arrives between 6 and 8 a.m. EDT on Friday, breaking the 40-day dry streak.
- Q: How much rain will Boston get from this system?
- A: Accumulations will total 0.25 to 0.5 inches across Greater Boston—enough to soak dry ground but not cause flooding.
- Q: What is the best time for outdoor plans this weekend?
- A: Saturday afternoon is the best window—mostly dry with increasing clouds, and rain holds off until after 8 p.m.
- Q: Are there any severe weather concerns for Sunday?
- A: Scattered showers and possible thunderstorms are expected Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a cold front clearing the area in the evening.
Extended Reading
Forecast details sourced from Boston Globe metro coverage, WCVB meteorologist video updates, and WHDH 7News weather blog reporting. All three outlets confirm the Friday morning arrival and unsettled weekend pattern.