MANCHESTER, N.H. – A frosty start greets southern New Hampshire as temperatures dip into the 30s early Friday, bringing the region’s first widespread frost risk of the season. Sensitive plants and late-season gardens across the Merrimack Valley could take a hit before a milder, sunnier stretch arrives for the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, patchy frost is expected through Friday morning, with the greatest concern across rural areas from Concord to southern Hillsborough County. Residents are urged to cover plants, disconnect garden hoses, and bring sensitive vegetation indoors before dawn. The early chill will give way to warmer days ahead, with plenty of sunshine and highs climbing into the mid-60s and 70s by Saturday and Sunday.
Saturday remains ideal for fall foliage trips or outdoor events, featuring light winds and a high near 65°F. By Sunday, skies stay mostly sunny before clouds and showers increase late in the evening as a weak front approaches. Winds could gust near 20 mph at times, bringing brief rain to the area before another cool-down early next week.
The frost threat marks a seasonal shift for New Hampshire, with crisp mornings and milder afternoons through next week. Homeowners should prepare now for colder nights ahead by winterizing outdoor faucets and protecting garden beds. While no major hazards follow Friday’s chill, the region enters a true mid-October pattern of cool mornings and occasional rain chances.
Five-Day Forecast for Manchester, NH:
Fri: 62/33 – Patchy frost early; sunny and calm.
Sat: 65/40 – Mostly sunny; mild and pleasant.
Sun: 69/50 – Mostly sunny; late showers possible.
Mon: 63/45 – Rain likely early; cooler breeze.
Tue: 65/44 – Partly sunny; lingering light showers.
