New Hampshire Braces for Overnight Freeze, Warming by Friday

Temperatures plummet to 24°F in parts of the state, raising concerns for early spring vegetation and potential traction issues.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 7:41am

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A vast, frozen landscape painting in muted tones of gray and blue, with a lone, bare tree silhouetted against a dramatic, cloudy sky. The scene conveys the overwhelming power and sublime scale of the natural world, dwarfing any human presence.The stark beauty of a New Hampshire winter landscape serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the transition to spring.Manchester Today

A sharp, biting chill has settled across Manchester, New Hampshire, with temperatures dipping into the mid-20s before sunrise. Frost coats windshields and lawns, and a few slick patches may linger on bridges and overpasses along major highways. However, sunshine and warming temperatures are expected to improve conditions by midday, with highs reaching near 56°F. The weekend will see a mix of sun and clouds, with temperatures rebounding to the upper 50s by Sunday.

Why it matters

Early spring freezes can pose a threat to budding vegetation and create hazardous driving conditions, particularly on bridges and overpasses. The weather pattern in New Hampshire is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the transition to warmer weather, and the importance of staying informed about changing conditions.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the clear skies and calm winds allowed temperatures to fall to around 24°F in parts of southern New Hampshire early this morning. This cold start raises concerns for early spring vegetation and could lead to brief traction issues during the first part of the commute. Sunshine quickly takes over by midday, helping temperatures rebound to near 56°, and roads dry out, improving conditions across Manchester, Nashua, and Concord. However, the air remains crisp, and shaded areas may stay cool longer than expected.

  • Early this morning, temperatures dipped into the mid-20s before sunrise.
  • By midday, sunshine helps temperatures rebound to near 56°.
  • Friday brings a noticeable shift toward spring, with highs climbing to around 67° and partly sunny skies.
  • Saturday tops out near 55° under sunshine, followed by a chilly night near freezing.
  • Sunday rebounds slightly into the upper 50s with increasing clouds and another chance of showers late.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather alerts in the United States.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the changing weather conditions in the region.

The takeaway

This early spring freeze serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the transition to warmer weather in New Hampshire. Residents should stay informed about changing conditions and be prepared for potential impacts on vegetation and driving safety.