New Hampshire feels winter tighten its grip as light snow drifts across fields and exhaust hangs in the cold air. Roads stay pale and crunchy early, but the bigger change arrives Sunday, when snow gives way to ice and travel conditions deteriorate fast.
According to the National Weather Service, snow continues to impact southern New Hampshire into Sunday, with total accumulations of 1 to 3 inches possible around Manchester. Temperatures climb toward the mid-30s during the day, allowing snow to compact and turn slushy on treated roads.
By Sunday evening, the threat escalates. Precipitation shifts toward freezing rain as colder air presses in near the surface. Ice accretion becomes possible after sunset, especially on bridges, hills, and secondary roads. Travel could turn slick quickly along routes like I-93, Route 101, and neighborhood streets.
Drivers should plan carefully if returning home Sunday night or heading out for end-of-year trips. Even light ice can cause spin-outs and slowdowns. Reduce speed, leave extra following distance, and avoid sudden turns. Pedestrians should expect slippery sidewalks and parking lots.
Freezing rain continues into Monday, with highs near the upper 30s. Rain may mix in at times, but temperatures drop again Monday night. Any leftover moisture could refreeze, setting up black ice during early-morning travel.
Looking ahead, colder air settles back in Tuesday, with highs near the mid-20s. Conditions dry out, but winter remains firmly in place. New Year’s Eve on Wednesday looks cold and quiet, with highs near freezing and lows in the teens as 2026 approaches.
This storm signals an active winter pattern heading into the last week of December. Conditions may change quickly Sunday night. Traveling during the holiday stretch? Let us know what road conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Weather Outlook: Manchester, NH
- Sunday: Snow changing to mix; high near 36
- Monday: Freezing rain then rain; high near 37
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, colder; high near 26
- Wednesday (New Year’s Eve): Partly cloudy, cold; high near 32
- New Year’s Day: Mostly sunny, cold; high near 28
