Weather
New Hampshire Winter Outlook 2026-27: Snow Still a Threat
Manchester, NH – New Hampshire residents preparing for the 2026 27 winter season could experience warmer than normal temperatures and increased precipitation, according to newly issued federal seasona
By Natalie Brooks · 2026-10-16T16:47:08.267Z
Manchester, NH – New Hampshire residents preparing for the 2026 27 winter season could experience warmer than normal temperatures and increased precipitation, according to newly issued federal seasonal outlooks. However, snowstorms, freezing rain and dangerous travel conditions remain possible across Manchester, Nashua, Concord and surrounding communities.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center, seasonal outlooks issued Thursday, October 15, favor above normal temperatures and precipitation across New Hampshire from November 2026 through January 2027.
What does NOAA predict for New Hampshire this winter?
The temperature outlook places New Hampshire within an area showing approximately a 40% to 50% probability of above normal temperatures.
This means the three month period is more likely to average warmer than usual, although significant cold outbreaks and periods of freezing temperatures remain possible.
The precipitation outlook also favors above normal conditions, with probabilities generally ranging from 33% to 40%.
These projections include rain, snow, sleet and freezing rain. Wetter than normal conditions do not necessarily mean the state will receive above average snowfall.
Will Manchester and New Hampshire see significant snow?
Winter storms remain a concern across Hillsborough County and the greater Manchester metropolitan area, particularly along Interstate 93, Interstate 89 and the Everett Turnpike.
Northern communities near the White Mountains, including Conway, Lincoln and Berlin, could still experience substantial snowfall during individual winter storms.
National Weather Service briefing materials indicate very strong El Niño conditions are highly likely to continue into winter.
El Niño can influence storm tracks and temperature patterns across the United States, although its effects vary considerably between winters.
Seasonal outlooks describe overall probabilities rather than predicting individual storms or specific snowfall totals.
For New Hampshire, the outlook favors a warmer and potentially wetter start to the winter season, but significant snow, ice and hazardous driving conditions remain possible.
Residents should monitor updated National Weather Service forecasts as winter approaches.