CONCORD, N.H. — Valentine’s Day weekend is expected to bring a break from recent bitter cold across Vermont and New Hampshire, with temperatures trending closer to or slightly above freezing while the threat for rain or snow remains through the following week.
According to the National Weather Service and the NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s 8- to 14-day outlook, much of northern New England is favored to see above-normal temperatures from Feb. 14 through Feb. 20. The shift marks a change from the prolonged Arctic cold that dominated the region earlier in February.
High temperatures on Valentine’s Day are forecast to reach the low to mid-30s across much of Vermont and New Hampshire. Southern New Hampshire and the Connecticut River Valley could see highs approach the upper 30s, while colder conditions persist in the Northeast Kingdom and higher elevations of the White Mountains. Overnight lows are expected to remain mainly in the teens and 20s.
While temperatures moderate, the overall pattern remains unsettled. Forecast guidance points to near to above-normal precipitation across the region, increasing the likelihood of rain, snow or mixed precipitation events during the holiday weekend and into the workweek.
Precipitation type will depend heavily on elevation and time of day. Snow is more likely in northern areas and higher terrain, while valleys and southern locations may see a rain-snow mix or periods of rain during the daytime. Refreezing at night could create slick travel conditions, especially on untreated roads.
Residents are advised to remain alert to changing forecasts, as small temperature shifts could significantly influence precipitation type and impacts.
