Concord, NH – A powerful Arctic air mass is expected to plunge into New Hampshire late next week, bringing subzero wind chills, single-digit lows, and dangerously cold mornings between Thursday, December 11, and Monday, December 15. The outbreak will bring the coldest air of the season to areas including Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and the White Mountains region.
According to the National Weather Service Gray, ME, the Arctic front will arrive late Thursday, sending temperatures tumbling into the single digits and below zero in northern counties. Wind chills could range from –15°F to –25°F, especially in higher elevations and open areas.
Forecasters say the event will be mostly dry, though light snow showers or flurries are possible Friday and Saturday as cold northwest winds cross the region. Despite minimal accumulation, slick spots could develop on untreated roads and sidewalks.
Residents are advised to bundle up, limit outdoor exposure, and protect pets and pipes from the extreme cold. Frostbite can occur in under 10 minutes when wind chills fall below –20°F. Homeowners are also encouraged to test heating systems and seal drafty areas before temperatures bottom out.
The Arctic cold will linger through Monday, December 16, before gradually moderating midweek. Meteorologists caution that another cold wave may follow later in December, maintaining below-average temperatures across the Granite State.
For continuous updates, follow the National Weather Service Gray, ME and New Hampshire Homeland Security and Emergency Management for the latest advisories and safety alerts.
