Southern New Hampshire is enjoying a final burst of sunshine this week, but by Friday, light rain could cause minor disruptions—especially for evening events and weekend travel. If you’re in Manchester or nearby areas, it’s a good idea to keep umbrellas and rain jackets ready. The National Weather Service has forecasted a shift in weather starting late Thursday night, with scattered showers likely through Saturday.
Dry and Sunny Midweek in Manchester
Wednesday and Thursday are expected to be the best days of the week for outdoor activities. Wednesday will bring clear skies and warm temperatures around 81°F, with gentle winds from the south. Thursday follows a similar pattern, with highs reaching 82°F and mostly calm conditions.
This stretch of dry weather is perfect for errands, outdoor work, or after-school sports. But it’s also your window to prepare for wet weather ahead.
Rain Arrives by Late Thursday Night
Starting Thursday night, the weather begins to change. Showers are likely to spread across Hillsborough and Rockingham counties overnight, bringing a 30–50% chance of rain by Friday. While rainfall amounts are expected to stay light, the timing may cause issues for:
Friday evening football games
School or college events
Local travel on I-93 and Route 101
Even light showers can create slippery roads, so it’s best to drive cautiously during your Friday and Saturday commutes.
Weekend Outlook: Damp but Not a Washout
The rain may hang around into Saturday, especially during morning and afternoon hours. While it won’t be a total washout, anyone planning hikes, picnics, or kids’ sports should have a backup indoor plan. Manchester schools and sports programs might adjust schedules based on weather updates closer to the weekend.
Here’s how the weekend shapes up:
Friday: On-and-off showers, mostly light but enough to cause wet roads and minor delays.
Saturday: Similar pattern with occasional showers possible during the day.
Sunday: Dry skies return, with cooler air and a high of 72°F—a perfect fall-like finish to the week.
Tips for the Rainy Days Ahead
Secure outdoor furniture or decorations by Thursday.
Keep raincoats and umbrellas ready for Friday and Saturday.
Expect wet bleachers and possibly delayed start times at sports events.
Allow extra time for driving, especially at night or early morning.
Five-Day Weather Forecast for Manchester, NH
| Day | Forecast | High Temp | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | Sunny | 81°F | Calm south wind |
| Thursday | Sunny | 82°F | Light winds, dry conditions |
| Friday | Showers possible | 82°F | 30–50% chance, evening rain likely |
| Saturday | Showers continue | 82°F | Intermittent rain throughout day |
| Sunday | Mostly sunny and cooler | 72°F | Dry and breezy, fall feel returns |
Manchester’s weather will stay calm and sunny through Thursday, but changes are coming fast. Friday and Saturday bring a higher chance of light showers, which might disrupt sports, travel, and outdoor events. While the rain won’t be heavy, it’s always better to stay prepared and flexible with your plans. By Sunday, clearer skies and cooler temperatures will return—offering a refreshing start to the new week.
