Winter Storm Watch Issued For NH: 'Heavy, Wet Snow' Expected

CONCORD, NH — A winter storm watch was issued for the state of New Hampshire Friday warning of heavy and wet snow that might cause power outages and driving problems on roads and Interstates.

The alert from the National Weather Service was issued at 3:33 a.m. stating that a Nor'easter low will intensify in the area of Cape Cod Saturday and could bring snow to central and southern parts of the state.

"As it does so, it will spread rain and snow across northern New England," the alert stated. "Rain changes to snow as colder air gets pulled into the storm during the day Saturday — with snow making it all the way to the coast. Significant snowfall accumulations are expected for parts of the area."

The NWS said Granite Staters should expect the storm to bring "heavy, wet snow" that will stick "efficiently to trees which could cause downed branches and a few power outages." Roads will be "snow covered and slippery," the alert stated.

Snowfall rates will be between 1 and 2 inches per hour during the height of the storm with total snow accumulation between four and eight inches expected.

In central New Hampshire communities, like Concord, 2 to 4 inches is expected Saturday and another 3 to 5 inches on Saturday night and early Sunday morning.

In south-central and southern communities, like Amherst, Bedford, Londonderry, Merrimack, Milford, Nashua, Salem, and Windham, 2 to 4 inches are possible on Saturday and then another 2 to 4 inches are possible on Saturday night and early Sunday morning.

In Exeter, Hampton, North Hampton, and Portsmouth, 1 to 2 inches is possible on Saturday with another 2 to 4 inches on Saturday night and early Sunday morning.

The watch runs from 7 a.m. Saturday to 1 p.m. Sunday.

State emergency management officials asked on Twitter, are you ready, New Hampshire?

Potential for #winter weather this weekend - are you #ReadyNH? Keep a well-stocked emergency kit for unexpected delays or repairs during the cold winter months. Stay informed, have a plan, make a kit, get involved! Learn more at https://t.co/Qo1kPFn3ys. pic.twitter.com/DjaVgWYCb3
— NH HSEM (@NH_HSEM) December 3, 2020

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