Manchester, NH – Streetlights flicker in the early dawn as brisk gusts sweep across southern New Hampshire, rustling the last of the fall leaves. The air feels raw and unsettled — a signal that the region is bracing for another round of intense wind and rain as November takes hold. Drivers and homeowners alike should prepare for gusts strong enough to down limbs and flick power lines through early Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, a High Wind Watch remains in effect from Wednesday evening through Thursday morning across western and central Hillsborough, Cheshire, and coastal Rockingham counties. West winds of 25 to 30 mph could gust up to 55 mph, especially in elevated and exposed areas near Keene, Nashua, and Portsmouth. The agency warns that travel may become hazardous for high-profile vehicles and that scattered outages are possible. Residents should secure loose outdoor items and be prepared for brief power interruptions.
Rain arrives today with the passing cold front, then clears as drier, cooler air sweeps in Thursday afternoon. Temperatures will fall sharply from the 50s into the 30s by Friday morning, ushering in a brisk, late-fall chill. Friday and Saturday look calmer and partly sunny — good news for early holiday travel or outdoor prep — though another rain system may return late in the weekend.
Long-range models hint at a possible early-season cold snap by Veterans Day next week, with some northern New England valleys dipping below freezing. For now, the Granite State faces a gusty midweek transition toward winter’s doorstep.
Five-Day Forecast for Manchester, NH:
Wed: 53/37 – Rain developing; gusts up to 55 mph.
Thu: 47/25 – Mostly sunny, breezy early; colder late.
Fri: 52/42 – Partly sunny; calm and cool.
Sat: 61/37 – Mostly sunny; pleasant fall day.
Sun: 55/47 – Chance of rain; breezy and cooler late.
