Winter Storm Watch Issued For NH; 6 to 14 Inches Expected

GRAY, ME — The National Weather Service issued a “winter storm watch” at just before 3 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2018, warning of a possible coastal storm heading to the region on Thursday. The storm was considered “major” with “heavy snow” expected and difficult travel conditions during the evening commute. As much as 6 inches are possible, according to the NWS, but other forecasters believe that southern and central New Hampshire could receive up to 14 inches of the white stuff.

“Low pressure will take shape east of Florida during the day Wednesday and then strengthen rapidly as it lifts north to a position off the New England coast on Thursday,” the alert noted. “This storm has the potential to bring heavy snow and strong winds...especially to coastal sections of Maine and New Hampshire where blizzard conditions are possible.”

Forecasters say that some uncertainty remains with regards to the exact track of the storm as well as the amount of snow that could arrive. In its alert, the NWS is forecasting 6 inches for New Hampshire’s Patch communities. Other forecasters, like Eric Fisher of WBZ, believe that 4 to 8 inches are expected in southern and central NH while Windham to the Seacoast could expect 8 to 12 inches. Joe Joyce, another forecaster, believes that 9 to 14 inches will hit most of the state, including all Patch communities like Concord, Londonderry, and Portsmouth.

If the storm shifts south, the center will remain in southern Massachusetts and out to sea; if it stays on its current path or moves slightly north, more snow will hit the Granite State.

The NWS predicted that regardless of the exact amount of snow, winds are expected to be as high as 35 mph, and cold wind chills as low as -20 degrees. Any more than 30 minutes outside might cause frostbite on exposed skin, the alert added.

The latest weather conditions can be found on the front page of every Patch.com site in the United States including the 12 New Hampshire Patch news and community websites. Local, four-day weather reports for New Hampshire are posted on Sundays and Thursdays; alerts are posted when needed.