MANCHESTER, N.H. – A cool, calm Saturday morning gives way to patchy fog and a mild fall weekend before widespread rain dampens Columbus Day plans across southern New Hampshire. The region will see a brief stretch of sunshine before clouds thicken late Sunday, marking a shift toward a wetter, breezier pattern early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, scattered showers will develop Sunday afternoon and become more widespread by Monday morning, potentially slowing traffic along I-93 and Route 101 during the holiday. Motorists should allow extra time for travel and keep headlights on during reduced visibility periods. Winds may gust up to 25 mph at times, with cooler air settling in behind the front by Tuesday.
Temperatures will hold near seasonal normals this weekend — highs in the mid-60s Saturday and Sunday — before falling into the upper 50s by Tuesday. Despite the rain, no flooding or severe storms are expected. Skies will gradually clear midweek, offering a pleasant window for pumpkin patch visits and early fall foliage trips through the Merrimack Valley and Lakes Region.
Residents are urged to prepare for wet roads, secure outdoor decorations, and plan indoor alternatives for Monday’s Columbus Day gatherings. Drier, sunnier conditions return by Wednesday, with another crisp and cool stretch late week perfect for leaf peeping and Halloween prep.
Five-Day Forecast for Manchester, NH:
Sat: 67/44 – Patchy fog early, mostly sunny; light winds.
Sun: 60/47 – Increasing clouds; slight chance of afternoon showers.
Mon: 55/45 – Cloudy, breezy; showers likely for Columbus Day travel.
Tue: 59/43 – Mostly cloudy; lingering showers early, then gradual clearing.
Wed: 63/39 – Mostly sunny and pleasant; classic fall chill by evening.
