Manchester, NH – The coldest air of the season is tightening its grip on southern New Hampshire this morning, marking a sharp turn toward true December weather. The sky hangs low and gray, with the scent of snow lingering in the air as temperatures dip near freezing. Residents heading out early should brace for a brisk northwest wind that makes it feel even colder.
According to the National Weather Service, a light chance of snow lingers early today with temperatures hovering in the low 30s. By this afternoon, skies clear gradually but winds will increase, keeping wind chills in the 20s. The real change arrives Thursday night when cold Canadian air surges in — dropping temperatures into the single digits by early Friday.
Meteorologists say wind chills could make it feel below zero across open areas Friday morning, especially north and west of Manchester. Drivers should be alert for patches of black ice, particularly where melted snow refreezes on shaded roadways or bridges. This quick freeze could lead to slick travel during early commutes.
By the weekend, sunshine returns but temperatures remain stubbornly low, struggling to reach the mid-30s even by Sunday. It’s a crisp, bright stretch that feels more like mid-winter than early December — perfect for those stringing holiday lights but challenging for early morning workers.
Five-Day Outlook (Manchester Airport)
Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high 36°F.
Friday: Bitter cold, high 23°F, morning wind chills near 0°F.
Saturday: Partly sunny, high 33°F.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 32°F.
Monday: Clear and cold, high 28°F.
