Boston holiday week forecast: Cold eases slowly, with snowfall likely Christmas Eve

As we kick off the holiday week, Boston still finds itself in the grip of frigid air under the influence of Arctic high pressure. But snowfall is expected in the region as the week unfolds.

Here is what's in store for the holidays:

It's not quite as cold as Sunday, and there won't be much wind Monday, which does make a difference this time of year.

Expect highs in the 20s with lots of sun. Some lingering ocean-effect snow showers on Cape Cod will bring a scattered dusting, with as much as an inch or 2 in spots.

A weak clipper system will bring light snow to much of the region, starting late Monday evening in western New England. A little light snow is possible in Boston on either side of midnight.

Light snow will fall from midmorning to midday Tuesday. While the South Coast and Cape Cod may see a mix of rain and snow, the city is expected to pick up a light coating.

In fact, much of southern New England will see a coating, with an inch or 2 falling in the high terrain of northern Worcester County and southwestern New Hampshire.

Northern New England will fare a bit better for snow lovers, with accumulations ranging from 2 to 4 inches in lower elevations, with as much as 4 to 6 inches in the higher terrain. The summits of northern Vermont and New Hampshire will pick up 8 or more inches.

By midday on Christmas Eve, the snow will taper off, leaving behind a wintry landscape. While this isn’t a big storm, it could make for slick roads in the morning, so keep that in mind if you’re heading out.

Weather for Christmas Day and the first night of Hanukkah looks quiet and seasonable. Expect highs in the lower 30s in Boston, with mostly sunny skies for much of the day.

By the evening, there’s a slight chance of flurries or snow showers near the coast, adding a little holiday ambiance without any significant impact.

As the week progresses, dry and chilly weather will dominate, and temperatures will start to moderate slightly. The next chance for any widespread precipitation comes late in the weekend, when another system could bring rain or snow, depending on temperatures at that time.

For now, enjoy the festive week ahead, and don’t forget to bundle up — it’s definitely feeling like winter in New England!