Manchester, NH – A quick-moving weather system is brushing through southern New Hampshire this morning, bringing a rain-to-snow transition that marks another turn toward early-season winter conditions. Light precipitation will move out by tonight, but a blast of colder air arriving immediately afterward is expected to drop temperatures into the teens by Thursday night, setting up several days of brisk December weather across the region.
Rain Changes to Snow as Temperatures Fall
The National Weather Service reports that light snow may mix with rain through midday before tapering off after sunset. While little or no measurable accumulation is expected, forecasters caution that slick spots may develop as temperatures slip close to freezing on untreated roads and sidewalks.
In its morning update, the NWS noted,
“Light precipitation today may cause minor travel difficulties as surfaces cool. Drivers should remain alert for sudden changes in road conditions.”
Commuters along I-93 and Route 101 should anticipate patches of refreezing pavement late this afternoon, especially in shaded areas or on overpasses where surface temperatures drop more quickly.
Colder, Windier Conditions Move in Thursday
Behind the departing system, colder and drier air funnels into New England beginning Thursday morning. Skies will brighten, but winds will increase, with gusts possibly reaching 35 mph, making daytime highs in the mid-30s feel noticeably colder.
Wind chills are expected to settle into the 20s for most of the day, giving residents a reminder that deeper winter conditions are not far off. Outdoor workers, morning commuters, and anyone traveling before sunrise should plan for layered clothing and time to clear frost from vehicles.
Friday Marks the Week’s Coldest Air
Meteorologists say Friday will deliver the sharpest chill of the week. High temperatures may struggle to rise above 29°F, while overnight lows drop into the mid-teens. Clear skies will dominate, allowing cold air to settle across the region.
The brisk, dry pattern will continue into Saturday, offering a break from precipitation but supporting icy morning conditions. Residents preparing for weekend travel should give themselves extra time to warm up vehicles and check tire pressure, which often falls during cold snaps.
Watching the Great Lakes System for Next Week
Forecasters are monitoring a larger system over the Great Lakes that could influence New England’s temperatures between December 12 and 17. While widespread snow is not expected at this time, the pattern may reinforce freezing morning lows and maintain a stretch of relatively quiet but cold weather.
This setup favors clear evenings for holiday displays but may create concerns for late-night drivers, especially on rural or untreated routes where thin ice layers can form after sunset.
Five-Day Outlook for Manchester, NH
Thursday: Mostly sunny and breezy, high near 34°F.
Friday: Sunny and cold, high near 29°F, low near 14°F.
Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 33°F.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, high near 30°F.
Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 28°F.
Stay Prepared for Sudden Temperature Drops
With more cold air reinforcing the region in the coming days, Manchester residents should keep ice scrapers, gloves, and winter gear easily accessible. Even with minimal snowfall, fluctuating temperatures can quickly turn wet pavement into hazardous patches of ice.
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