Plum Island & Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, MA

Today’s Forecast:

Today’s Report:

About Plum Island & Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

The representative forecast point covers the main visitor approach, but conditions can differ across water, shorelines, forest interiors, distant access points. Important decisions involve barrier-beach closures, tidal marsh paddling, greenhead flies, surf, rip currents, refuge capacity and wildlife programs.

Planning an Outing at Plum Island & Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Check the exact trail, route, paddling access, fishing access, event notice that applies to the chosen activity. The observation near Newburyport should not be treated as proof of conditions across the entire coverage area.

Weather Tips for Plum Island & Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

• Leave open water, shorelines, exposed event areas when thunder is heard.
• Check wind, visibility, access and seasonal operations shortly before departure.
• Carry layers, sun protection and enough water for humidity, wind and rapid temperature changes.
• Follow official closures, wildlife restrictions and emergency instructions.

Nearby Towns and Areas

Use this forecast as practical context for plans near:

• Newburyport
• Newbury
• Parker River NWR
• Sandy Point
• Merrimack River mouth

Adjust the Day to the Forecast

Use the refuge road or an open observation area when surf or beach closures prevent shoreline plans; paddling belongs on marked tidal marsh routes near high tide, not the exposed ocean.

7-Day Forecast for Plum Island & Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Plum Island & Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Weather by Season

Winter

Cold wind, ice and reduced facilities replace summer beach use, while storms can overwash low refuge roads.

Spring

Shorebird closures expand as cold water, fog and changing tides continue to affect paddling.

Summer

Greenheads, heat, rip currents and capacity closures make timing as important as the forecast.

Fall

Beaches reopen unevenly before tropical swell and nor’easters renew erosion and road-flooding concerns.

Key Climate Data Points

• Local climate: Northeast Massachusetts barrier island; annual mean temperature near 50°F; about 45–48 inches precipitation; roughly 45–55 inches snow; fog and cold water common in spring.
• Warmest period: July and August are warmest, yet sea breezes, fog and cold surf can keep the barrier beach cooler than inland towns.
• Coolest period: January is coldest, with strong wind and limited shelter making modest temperatures feel severe.
• Primary storm or hazard season: Nor’easters, overwash, coastal flooding and tropical swell can close roads or beach access; wildlife closures also shift seasonally.
• Best general outdoor window: Late spring and early fall favor trails and paddling when access is open, insects manageable and marine wind lighter.