Boston, Massachusetts — June is getting off to a cool and cloudy start across much of the region, but forecasters say a significant warmup is on the way as temperatures climb steadily through the week.
While a few showers and clouds may linger early in the forecast period, residents can expect sunshine and much warmer temperatures by midweek.
Cloudy Start Keeps Temperatures Cool
Monday began with considerable cloud cover and a few isolated showers across the area.
Forecasters say skies will gradually clear throughout the day, allowing for some sunshine to emerge later in the afternoon. However, the cloudy start is expected to keep temperatures from warming too quickly.
High temperatures Monday are forecast to reach only the low 60s, while some coastal communities may remain even cooler, with temperatures staying in the upper 50s.
The cooler conditions may make it feel more like spring than the beginning of June.
Significant Warmup Expected by Midweek
The weather pattern is expected to improve significantly over the next several days.
Meteorologists forecast temperatures rising steadily through the week, eventually reaching the 80s by Thursday.
Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to feature mostly sunny skies along with comfortable temperatures in the low to mid-70s.
The warming trend will provide residents with their first widespread taste of summer-like weather after several weeks of unsettled conditions.
Forecasters say the combination of sunshine and warmer temperatures should make the middle of the week particularly pleasant for outdoor activities.
Lingering Showers Fade Away
While most of the week is expected to be dry, a few isolated clouds and sprinkles could still develop Tuesday afternoon.
However, weather experts say those spotty showers should mark the end of the recent unsettled weather pattern that has brought frequent periods of rain throughout May.
According to weather data, May recorded 13 days with measurable rainfall.
Despite the number of rainy days, total precipitation for the month remained approximately one inch below normal levels.
That deficit continues a broader trend that has persisted across the region.
Drought Conditions Remain a Concern
Even with occasional rainfall during May, long-term moisture shortages remain a significant concern.
Meteorologists note that the area has now experienced a full calendar year with below-normal precipitation.
As a result, groundwater levels remain lower than what experts consider healthy for this time of year.
Current conditions include moderate drought across much of the region, while areas north of Boston continue to experience severe drought conditions.
The lack of substantial rainfall has affected soil moisture, groundwater supplies and overall drought recovery efforts.
Dry Forecast May Offer Little Relief
Unfortunately for drought-stricken communities, the upcoming weather pattern is not expected to provide much-needed rainfall.
Forecasters say rain chances remain limited through most of the week, with the next meaningful opportunity for precipitation not expected until Sunday.
While residents may welcome the warmer temperatures and sunshine, drought conditions could continue to worsen if significant rainfall does not arrive soon.
For now, the forecast points toward a pleasant stretch of early June weather, highlighted by sunshine, warmer temperatures and a strong push toward summer conditions.
Are you looking forward to the warmer temperatures this week, or are you hoping for more rain to help ease drought conditions? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
