Manchester, NH – After a blustery start to the weekend, northern New England will experience a brief break in the wind before rain and cooler November air move in early next week. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Gray, Maine, warns that gusts could still reach up to 45 mph through midday Saturday before easing by evening.
The Weather System: Strong Winds and Clearing Skies
Early Saturday brought strong gusts across southern New Hampshire and southern Maine, toppling loose branches and scattering autumn leaves across roads and yards. The NWS reported that winds between 40–45 mph were possible through the morning hours, with isolated power flickers expected in higher terrain and along major routes including I-93 and Route 101.
Forecasters say the region will enjoy calmer and clearer skies by Sunday, with plenty of sunshine and highs in the low 50s. However, this calm window will be short-lived as a new low-pressure system approaches from the west.
Rain and Wind Return on Monday
By late Sunday night into Monday, clouds will thicken as the next system brings widespread rain and gusty winds. The chance of rain is near 70%, and commuters should prepare for a damp and breezy Monday morning.
“The system will move quickly through the area, bringing periods of moderate rain followed by cooler air behind the front,” the NWS said in its weekend briefing.
Temperatures will briefly rise to around 59°F Monday afternoon before dropping again as the front passes. Winds may gust near 25 mph during the heaviest rainfall.
Residents are advised to secure outdoor decorations and clear storm drains of leaves to prevent localized flooding. The cooler air that follows will mark the first push of November chill across the region.
Outlook: Cooler Days and Possible Early Snow Up North
After the rain clears, Tuesday and Wednesday will bring brighter but colder weather. Highs will settle in the mid-50s, with nighttime lows dipping close to freezing by midweek.
“A return to dry and breezy conditions is expected after the front moves offshore,” forecasters added, noting that temperatures will feel seasonably chilly.
Early winter trends are already being observed farther north. Maine’s higher peaks could see their first light snow within the next two weeks, marking the transition to winter weather patterns across the northern tier.
Local Forecast for Manchester, NH
- Saturday: 54°/31° – Sunny and breezy; west gusts up to 40 mph, cooler late.
- Sunday: 52°/30° – Mostly sunny and calm; crisp fall air.
- Monday: 59°/41° – 70% chance of rain; breezy and damp commute.
- Tuesday: 56°/35° – Sunny and cool; brisk northwest wind.
- Wednesday: 55°/38° – Mostly sunny; early chill, calm afternoon.
Conclusion
After a windy start to the weekend, northern New Englanders can expect one quiet day Sunday before rain, gusty winds, and cooler air return Monday. As temperatures dip and early snow looms in northern Maine, residents are reminded that November’s chill has officially arrived.
How are you preparing for the coming chill and rain? Share your thoughts and local weather tips in the comments below.
