Manchester, New Hampshire – The period between Dec. 26 and Jan. 2 consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous travel windows of winter in New Hampshire, particularly across the Manchester area and southern portions of the state, based on winter driving patterns and transportation safety trends.
State transportation officials say crash risk often increases after Christmas, even when traffic volumes appear lighter. The days following Dec. 25 combine return travel, driver fatigue, refreezing road conditions, and uneven traffic patterns, creating hazards that are frequently underestimated.
One of the most significant risks is overnight refreeze. Southern New Hampshire commonly experiences daytime thaw followed by sharply colder nights, producing black ice on roads that appear dry. Bridges, ramps, and shaded stretches along Interstate 93, Interstate 293, U.S. Route 3, and the Everett Turnpike are especially vulnerable.
Post-holiday fatigue is another major contributor. Drivers returning from family gatherings or long-distance trips often resume commuting with reduced sleep, which can slow reaction times and impair judgment. Early morning and evening travel periods during the days after Christmas are particularly risky.
Traffic patterns also become unpredictable. While some residents remain on holiday break, others return to work, leading to uneven speeds and sudden congestion, especially near urban centers like Manchester and along commuter corridors toward Boston.
Emergency responders note that many post-Christmas crashes in New Hampshire involve single vehicles, often due to loss of control on icy pavement rather than heavy traffic. Rural roads outside urban areas can pose added danger, as ice may persist longer and road treatment may be less frequent.
Officials urge drivers to treat the Dec. 26–Jan. 2 period with the same caution as major holiday travel days. Slowing down, allowing extra time, and staying alert on familiar routes can significantly reduce crash risk as New Hampshire heads into the new year.
