From Boston to Providence, a prolonged soaking rain event is moving in Wednesday. Roads, commutes, and outdoor plans are all at risk — and the worst is still a day away.
Key impact: Ponding on roadways, reduced visibility, and slow travel expected Thursday on I-90 and I-93 through the Boston metro area.
If you were counting on a dry week, New England has other plans. A multi-day storm system is set to sweep across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut beginning Wednesday, May 13 — and it’s not moving out quickly.
The system will bring three consecutive days of rain, with the most intense and widespread precipitation arriving Thursday. While no severe weather is expected, the sheer duration of the event could create real problems for commuters, travelers, and anyone with outdoor plans.
Wednesday, May 13
Early showers, then steady rain by evening
A few early showers develop before becoming more widespread later in the day. Temperatures remain mild — upper 50s to mid-60s.
Thursday, May 14 — Peak Day
Soaking, widespread rain all day
The wettest day of the event. Rain will be heavy and persistent across the region, leading to ponding on roads and significantly slower travel. Plan for extra commute time.
Friday, May 15
Rain tapers off, clearing by afternoon
Conditions improve through the day as drier air moves in. The weekend is looking better — but Friday morning may still be messy.
“The extended period of rain could impact commutes, outdoor plans, and visibility on major roadways — including I-90 and I-93 through the Boston metro.”
Forecasters emphasize that while this is not a severe weather event — no thunderstorms, high winds, or flooding warnings are currently in effect — the prolonged nature of the rainfall is what makes it disruptive. Water has less time to drain between rounds of rain, raising the risk of ponding and reduced visibility on major highways.
Residents across the tri-state area are encouraged to take advantage of Monday and Tuesday’s dry conditions to run outdoor errands, move vehicles to covered areas if possible, and check road conditions before heading out Thursday morning.
