Beware Dangers Of Hypothermia In NH's Ocean Water, Lakes, Rivers

GRAY, ME — This weekend is going to be a great weather weekend in New Hampshire, according to forecasters. After temperatures reach as high as 80 degrees today, Saturday and Sunday are expected to be the same – with highs between 79 and 82, with a lot of sun. Slightly lower temperatures are expected on the Seacoast.

However, the National Weather Service issued an alert on Friday morning warning that with the higher temperatures, Granite Staters might want to take a dive into some of the state’s cool water bodies – which may cause some to underestimate the dangers of water temps right now. Lake Winnipesaukee has temps in the lower 50s, as an example, and rivers and lakes north of the Lakes Region are even colder. The ocean temperature today at Hampton Beach is expected to be 52 degrees.

“The cold-water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water,” the NWS stated in an alert for the entire state. “When the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could lose dexterity within minutes and be unable to accomplish simple tasks.”

Anyone using small boats, canoes, or kayaks this weekend should plan accordingly and "use extreme caution" to avoid the cold-water temps. Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life jacket, the NWS stated.