St. Patrick’s Day Parade Weather: What to Expect This Sunday

The big St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are coming up in several New England cities, and people will be lining streets like Broadway in South Boston or watching the processions in Worcester, New Haven, and Portland. These parades are known for going ahead even when the weather is less than perfect; only in 2015 did snow force a route change, and the last real cancellation happened back in 1920 because of ice. This year’s forecast looks promising. The main parade in South Boston will kick off at 11:30 a. m. , and temperatures are expected to hover between the upper 30s and low 40s. The sky will be mostly cloudy, with a breeze that could reach about 15 mph and a chance of light rain or snow flurries. Bundling up will help keep warm. Worcester’s event starts at noon, with similar cloud cover and a slight breeze. Weather forecasters warn of a small possibility of sprinkles or brief flurries, but overall conditions should be fine for the crowd.

New Haven’s parade begins at 1:30 p. m. and may feel a bit windier, with gusts up to 20 mph. Temperatures will be in the low to mid-40s, and there is a very small chance of light rain. The sky will stay mostly cloudy. Portland’s procession starts at noon, and the weather there is expected to be close to what Worcester sees: upper 30s temperatures, a light breeze, and mostly cloudy skies. The chance of precipitation is low. A quick note about the “world’s shortest parade” in Little Compton, Rhode Island: it starts at 3 p. m. with temperatures again in the upper 30s and mostly cloudy conditions, and precipitation is unlikely. Overall, whether you’re watching from the sidewalk or taking part in a parade, the weather should be manageable. Keep warm clothes handy and enjoy the festive atmosphere of New England’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Actions