Memorial Day weekend is supposed to feel like the start of summer. But if you live in New Hampshire or Western Maine, Mother Nature did not get that memo. The National Weather Service is warning residents to brace for a chilly, wet holiday weekend — and it starts tonight.
Frost warning: Patchy frost is likely again tonight across northern areas. Cover sensitive plants and bring in pets overnight.
Saturday brings some relief — highs will be seasonable and mainly in the 60s across the region. Cities like Portland, Manchester, and Concord can expect cool but manageable conditions during the day. However, water temperatures remain bitterly cold, sitting in the upper 40s to mid 50s, so anyone thinking of an early-season swim should think twice.
The real trouble arrives Sunday. Moisture increases throughout the day, with rain moving in before becoming more widespread and showery on Memorial Day Monday. The NWS says anyone with outdoor plans — cookouts, hiking, beach trips — should keep a backup plan ready.
Mountain alert: Wintry precipitation and temperatures near freezing are possible across the highest mountain peaks this weekend. Hikers heading to White Mountain summits should pack extra layers and check conditions before heading out.
This is not a severe weather situation, but it is a reminder that spring in northern New England plays by its own rules. Even as the rest of the country fires up grills for Memorial Day, residents here may be reaching for a jacket instead.
Stay updated with the latest forecasts at weather.gov/gyx and follow the NWS Gray-Portland office for real-time alerts throughout the weekend.
