* WHAT...Dangerously cold wind chills as low as 25 below expected the eastern slopes of the Berkshire Mountains in Massachusetts. * WHERE...Western Franklin MA, Western Hampden MA, and Western Hampshire MA Counties. * WHEN...From 7 PM this evening to 1 PM EST Saturday. * IMPACTS...The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 25 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures.
A frigid start to the day with overnight temps dipping to 13.6°F sets the tone at Blandford Ski Area this January 23, 2026. Blandford Ski Area is a small ski resort located in Massachusetts.
Wind
Humidity
The snowpack stands at a modest 3 inches—well below historical averages—offering limited base coverage, though recent comparisons suggest conditions are slightly improved over previous years. With just 0.5 inches of snow water equivalent, snow density remains light, which could make for some soft turns where coverage is adequate. The next 72 hours hold a promising 1.29 inches of new snow, with a more generous 7 inches forecasted over five days—potentially revitalizing terrain later this week.
Despite the weather optimism, Blandford’s future hangs in the balance. Recent headlines paint an uncertain picture: local members are actively voting on the resort's fate following financial struggles and ownership losses. While previous announcements hinted at permanent closure, there's renewed hope for reopening, driven by community interest and a new season buzz. If the snow arrives as forecasted, it could rekindle the spirit of this historic Massachusetts ski area—just in time for a much-needed comeback. For now, skiers should expect variable coverage and limited terrain, but keep your fingers crossed for that incoming powder.
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Amherst.
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Blandford Ski Area.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Blandford Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
Blandford-Ski-Area is located in the Berkshire Mountains of western Massachusetts. The ski resort is situated on Blandford Mountain and is surrounded by other nearby mountain ranges such as the Taconic Mountains and the Green Mountains. The area offers a variety of terrain including beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Some of the notable mountain aspects of Blandford-Ski-Area include its diverse terrain, stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and its family-friendly atmosphere.
The resort offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, but the best trails are the intermediate trails, such as Raceway and Ridge Run. An interesting fact about the resort is that it was founded in 1936 by the Springfield Ski Club, making it one of the oldest ski areas in the country. For beginner skiers, the easiest trail is called Easy Rider, which is a gentle slope perfect for practicing turns and building confidence. As for après ski, the best place to hang out is the Blandford Ski Bar & Grill, which offers tasty food and drinks, a warm atmosphere, and live music on weekends.
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 28. south wind 6 to 14 mph becoming west in the afternoon. winds could gust as high as 25 mph.
Blandford Ski Area is expected to receive up to 7.63" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
Massachusetts ski conditions remain strong heading into the weekend, with the heaviest recent snowfall centered in central and northeastern parts of the state. Notably, Nohrsc Holden (near Wachusett Mountain Ski Area) received 4" in the last 24 hours, with a 7" snowpack and continued snowfall expected. Wachusett Mountain, located near Ashburnham and Barre Falls Dam—both showing 1" new snow and ... Read more