If you’ve got afternoon plans in Manchester this Friday, you might want to think twice. Forecasters are warning of a sudden wave of thunderstorms and heavy showers expected to roll through the Queen City just as the weekend energy kicks off. And if you’re planning to hit I-293 or I-93, buckle up—travel delays and dangerous driving conditions are all but guaranteed.
Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Step Outside:
After a week of spring sunshine, a sharp shift in atmospheric pressure is drawing warm, moist air into southern New Hampshire. That combination is often a recipe for fast-developing storms, and that’s exactly what the National Weather Service says we should expect by Friday afternoon, especially after 2 p.m.
Temperatures will be unseasonably warm—hovering around 78°F—which increases the odds of thunderstorm development. Add in building humidity, and it’s like striking a match near a gas leak: one spark and the skies could explode into action.
What Makes This Weather Event a Big Deal?
This isn’t just your average rain shower. These storms could bring:
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Sudden heavy rainfall that cuts visibility to near-zero on major roadways
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Strong gusty winds that may toss debris onto streets and highways
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Flash ponding on road surfaces, especially along I-293, I-93, and local roads around downtown Manchester
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Slippery roads and slowdowns that could severely impact rush-hour traffic and evening plans
That means whether you’re picking up the kids, commuting home, or heading out for dinner, you’ll want to time it smartly—or risk getting caught in a dangerous downpour.
Evening Outlook: What Happens After the Storms?
As night falls, the rain won’t be clocking out. Showers are expected to persist through Friday night, with a 60% chance of precipitation continuing past midnight. Temperatures will dip slightly, settling around 58°F, but the roads could stay slick and hazardous well into Saturday morning.
And speaking of Saturday: don’t get your hopes up for a full rebound. The unsettled weather pattern is sticking around, with another round of showers and possible storms expected after 2 p.m. on Saturday. Highs will reach around 72°F, but skies may stay gray.
What Should You Do Now?
Here’s how to stay safe and stay ahead:
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Avoid unnecessary travel on Friday afternoon and early evening if you can.
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Drive cautiously if you’re on the road—slow down, keep headlights on, and watch for sudden lane changes by other drivers in wet conditions.
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Check for weather alerts throughout the day, especially if you rely on highways like I-293 or I-93.
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Secure loose outdoor items now—they can become hazards when wind speeds ramp up during a storm.
Bottom Line: This Friday’s Storm Could Be Sneaky But Serious
Manchester might not be facing a named storm or a hurricane, but don’t let that fool you. Fast-moving thunderstorms can wreak havoc in just minutes, especially when they hit during peak traffic hours. Stay smart, stay dry, and don’t underestimate what a quick burst of bad weather can do.
