MANCHESTER, N.H. — A quiet, cold start to the weekend is expected to give way to a potentially slick winter setup across southern New Hampshire, as forecasters monitor a weak system capable of delivering light snow and rapidly freezing conditions by early Sunday, Dec. 14. While not a major storm, the timing and temperature drop could create travel issues across the Manchester region.
Conditions Begin to Change Saturday
Clear skies and biting temperatures set the tone early Saturday before moisture and cloud cover gradually increase ahead of the incoming system. According to the National Weather Service, daytime highs are expected to reach the mid-30s as a shallow warm layer slides in, creating a brief window for light rain or mixed precipitation before cooler air pushes back.
By late Saturday evening, forecasters say Manchester may see a rain-to-snow changeover, especially in the higher neighborhoods and areas north of the city. The anticipated snowfall is not expected to be heavy — probability remains near 30 percent — but even low totals can introduce problems given the cold ground and quickly dropping overnight temperatures.
Sunday Brings Colder Air and Higher Travel Risks
On Sunday, colder air tightens its hold across southern New Hampshire. High temperatures struggle to reach 29°F, and moisture leftover from the previous night sets the stage for black ice formation, particularly on untreated roadways. Transportation officials caution that side streets, bridge decks, and shaded roads may be especially vulnerable to slick spots during early-morning travel.
Forecasters note that this system signals the beginning of a more persistent winter pattern. Arctic air continues pushing south, supporting a cold regime that will continue into early next week. While this event will not deliver significant accumulation, meteorologists emphasize that it is the type of early winter setup that often catches drivers off guard.
Winds are expected to be lighter than earlier in the week, offering some relief from harsh wind chills, but the deepening cold remains the main hazard. By Sunday night, temperatures fall sharply again, dipping near 11°F, allowing any lingering moisture to quickly refreeze.
Residents planning outdoor errands, evening events, or early holiday travel should prepare for significantly colder conditions after sunset.
A Regional Pattern That Signals Winter’s Arrival
The weather shift seen in Manchester mirrors a broader trend across the Northeast. Upper-level patterns continue to funnel cold air into the region, and although snowfall remains limited, the consistent drop in temperatures reinforces December’s arrival.
Meteorologists say these early, smaller disturbances often serve as “season openers” — systems that reset ground temperatures, activate winter maintenance schedules, and make future storms more impactful.
Local plow crews and public works departments monitor events like these closely. Even when snow totals appear low, the rapid freeze-thaw cycle can strain road conditions, create potholes, and increase the likelihood of spinouts during the morning commute.
As Sunday approaches, Manchester officials urge drivers to slow down, leave extra space between vehicles, and plan for longer travel times if snow arrives before sunrise.
Five-Day Temperature Outlook for Manchester
Though the Sunday system is modest, the broader temperature trend shows a firm shift into winter conditions:
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high near 34°F
Sunday: Chance of snow, high near 29°F
Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 23°F
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 30°F
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 39°F
These fluctuations suggest a gradual rebound midweek, though cold mornings will persist through at least Wednesday. Forecasters will continue monitoring for additional disturbances capable of more widespread impacts as the holiday season approaches.
How are you preparing for Manchester’s early winter weather? Share your thoughts or travel plans in the comments — your experience can help others stay safe this weekend.
