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The weather should be just right for Marathon Monday
It’s Boston Marathon time! The 129th running of the storied 26.2-mile race is around the corner. And this year, runners might just get something rare: nearly perfect weather.
But before we dig into the 2025 forecast, let’s take a quick jog down memory lane. Boston Marathon weather history is like the course itself: full of ups and downs.
Past Extremes: Mother Nature’s marathon mood swings
Marathon Monday has dished out everything from sunny breezes to absolute meteorological mayhem. Here are a few of the headliners:
- In 1976, the race became known as the “Run for the Hoses.” Temperatures soared into the mid-80s, and volunteers brought out garden hoses to cool runners.
- In 2018, the combination of cold rain, headwinds, and temperatures in the 30s to low 40s made for one of the most brutal days in race history. Spectators shivered under ponchos. Elite runners dropped out. Some runners developed hypothermia.
And yes, there have even been snowflakes in the days leading up to Marathon Monday, though none during the actual race in modern memory.
2025: A Goldilocks forecast
We are keeping close tabs on this year’s setup — and right now, things are shaping up to be just right for runners.
Start in Hopkinton
Expect temps around 40–42 degrees at race start, and mid to upper 40s for later waves. It'll be cool and crisp, ideal for endurance. Humidity will be low, with partly cloudy skies.
Along the course
It'll gradually warm to the upper 50s and near 60 degrees, depending on pace and timing. That said, there are signs that an onshore wind kicks in, meaning the temperature may drop several degrees toward the end of the course. For those finishing later in the day, it may even be in the upper 40s at the finish line.
Winds
The wind doesn't look like a significant factor for this year's race. Expect an east to southeast wind of 10 mph or less.
Sky conditions
Expect some sun in the morning, followed by an increase in clouds. The remainder of the day looks mostly cloudy, though any wet weather should hold off.
Something to watch
A front coming through this weekend will slow and stall south of New England Sunday into Monday. Some moisture may linger along that boundary, meaning there's a chance of showers for Marathon Monday. This is the biggest thing that could change in the coming days.
Bottom line
This year’s Boston Marathon is shaping up to be one for the books — and not because of extreme weather. Instead, 2025 might just go down as one of the most comfortable race days in recent memory.
Whether you’re running Heartbreak Hill, ringing a cowbell in Wellesley or watching the final strides into Copley Square, you’ll be doing it with little impact from Mother Nature.
No ponchos, no sweat-soaked tanks — just great vibes, great athletes and the great tradition that is the Boston Marathon.
