Manchester, NH – Thin clouds drift across the pre-dawn sky as crisp air settles over the Merrimack Valley, and damp fall scents climb from cold pavement. Light wind moves through bare trees, signaling the change that strengthens later today when a soaking burst of rain pushes into southern New Hampshire. Travelers heading out early for weekend plans should prepare for slower conditions as visibility drops and standing water develops near I-293 and U.S. 3.
According to the National Weather Service Gray/Portland, clouds increase through this morning as a strong disturbance approaches from the west. Rain becomes steady by afternoon and turns heavier after sunset as calm wind shifts southeast. Gusts may remain modest, yet leaf-clogged drains could still back up quickly. Residents should clear gutters, secure yard items, and allow extra time for evening drives, especially through low-lying neighborhoods near the river.
According to New Hampshire Emergency Management, the heaviest rain falls Saturday night as the system reaches full strength. Although temperatures stay above freezing, a sharp cooling trend follows behind the departing low. To be fair, no snow is expected in Manchester from this event, but models hint at an early Winter Tease next week when colder air gathers across northern New England. Interior zones north of Concord may see a light snow chance before Thanksgiving, though any accumulation looks minor for now.
Sunday brightens gradually as the storm pulls east. Sunshine returns by midday with a cooler breeze and a crisp feel that favors outdoor cleanup or early holiday decorating. After all, November usually brings temperature whiplash, and the pattern ahead suggests more of that as the month deepens.
Five-Day Forecast for Manchester, NH:
Fri: 44/25 – Mostly sunny; light northwest breeze.
Sat: 44/33 – Increasing clouds; steady rain develops late.
Sun: 47/28 – Rain likely early; turning partly sunny and cooler.
Mon: 41/28 – Mostly sunny; crisp November air.
Tue: 45/26 – Mostly sunny; early winter hint north of the state.
