Maine wakes under a cold, steel-gray sky as light wind drifts across northern New England, carrying a sharp early-winter bite through Manchester, New Hampshire. Pavement looks dry now, but the chill hints at a December Weather Alert: the region’s first widespread accumulating snowfall is expected to build Tuesday into Wednesday, bringing 3–5 inches for many areas and slowing early-week travel.
According to the National Weather Service, increasing clouds today and Monday mark the early sign of the strengthening coastal system. By Tuesday morning, snow begins to fall across southern New Hampshire, intensifying through the afternoon as colder air locks in. Meteorologists now track a band of heavier snowfall developing toward the evening commute, when rates may exceed one inch per hour in bursts. Drivers on I-293, I-93, and Route 3 should prepare for rapidly deteriorating visibility and slippery roads.
Models hint at a possible changeover to rain near the immediate coast, but Manchester and inland communities stay cold enough for steady snow. Accumulations of 3–5 inches appear likely, with isolated higher amounts where heavier bands persist. After all, this is classic early-December pattern behavior—moisture surging north just as winter air tightens its grip.
Tuesday night brings an even higher-impact risk: temperatures fall into the teens, raising flash-freeze concerns for any slush or compacted snow left on untreated pavement. Breezy conditions could also push snow across secondary roads, adding to Wednesday morning hazards.
Sun returns Wednesday, but the crisp air lingers, keeping roads icy in shaded areas. Residents preparing for holiday travel later this week should plan for extended cleanup and slower travel Tuesday night into Wednesday.
Five-Day Outlook
Today: Slight AM mix, then rain; high 42.
Monday: Sunny; high 38.
Tuesday: Snow, 3–5″; heavy at times.
Wednesday: Sunny; high 36.
Thursday: Mostly cloudy; high 38.
