Thunderstorms, Rain Forecast for Manchester, NH This Weekend

Weather alerts issued as wet weather moves through the region

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:03am

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A vast, majestic landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, with a stormy sky overhead and heavy rain drenching the rolling hills and forests below, conveying the overwhelming, sublime scale of the incoming weather event.As a powerful storm system moves into the region, the tranquil New England landscape is enveloped in a dramatic, atmospheric display of nature's raw power.Manchester Today

A series of thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected to impact the Manchester, New Hampshire area over the next few days, with the potential for slick roads, reduced visibility, and travel disruptions. The National Weather Service has issued weather alerts as showers and thunderstorms move through the region, bringing the risk of brief downpours and lightning.

Why it matters

Severe weather can pose significant risks to public safety, especially for drivers on the roads. The Manchester area is a major transportation hub, with key highways like I-93 and Route 101 running through the city. Advance warning of the incoming storms allows residents and travelers to prepare and take necessary precautions.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the Manchester area will see showers and thunderstorms throughout the day on Friday, with a 60% chance of rain. While rainfall totals are expected to stay under a tenth of an inch for most areas, the storms could bring isolated heavier bursts and lightning that could briefly disrupt traffic. Temperatures are forecast to reach around 66°F before dropping to the mid-40s overnight.

  • Thunderstorms and showers are already moving through the Manchester area as of this morning.
  • The wet weather is expected to continue through the afternoon on Friday, April 17, 2026.
  • On Saturday, April 18, skies will be mostly cloudy with a high near 55°F, offering a temporary break from the steady rain.
  • Showers are expected to redevelop early on Sunday, April 19, with rain chances surging to 90% by late morning.
  • Drier air returns on Monday, April 20, with sunshine and a high near 47°F, but colder temperatures follow overnight, raising the risk of frost and isolated slick spots on Tuesday.

The players

National Weather Service

The National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data and forecasts for the United States, providing critical information to help protect life and property.

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What they’re saying

“Showers and thunderstorms will continue through the afternoon with a 60% chance of rain. While rainfall totals stay under a tenth of an inch for most areas, isolated heavier bursts and lightning may briefly disrupt traffic, especially along I-93, Route 101, and local surface streets.”

— National Weather Service

What’s next

Residents and travelers in the Manchester area should monitor the weather forecast and be prepared for potential disruptions to travel due to the incoming storms. The National Weather Service will continue to provide updates on the developing weather situation.

The takeaway

The incoming thunderstorms and heavy rain in Manchester highlight the importance of being prepared for severe weather events, which can pose significant risks to public safety, especially for drivers on the roads. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents and travelers can help minimize the impact of the storms and ensure their safety.