Thunderstorms May Block July 4 Fireworks In MA: See Forecast

MASSACHUSETTS — Early forecasts show there's a chance thunderstorms could obscure July 4 fireworks in Massachusetts.

The National Weather Service is predicting an up to 20 percent chance of stormy weather after 6 p.m. on Thursday, including in the Boston area, where the state's biggest fireworks show will take place.

"Cloud cover increases Wednesday evening ahead of a weak cold front that moves through southern New England on the Independence Day holiday, bringing a risk for showers and thunderstorms," the weather service said in a forecast synopsis Tuesday morning.

Here's a look at the precipitation probabilities across southern New England in 2024:

Even with the slight chance of rain, the forecast for this year's Independence Day celebration is looking much better than the soggy holiday in 2023.

Last year, temperatures were relatively chilly, with highs in the 60s or low 70s across the state. About a half inch of rain fell in Boston, and only slightly less in the Worcester area.

For 2024, temperatures are expected to reach into the mid-80s in Boston and Worcester, and only slightly cooler in the high 70s out on Cape Cod.

Fireworks shows set for Wednesday will be in the clear. The forecast calls for only partly cloudy skies, but no rain.

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