December marks the official beginning of winter in
New Hampshire, with cold temperatures, short days, and frequent snowfall. Average lows for the month fall from 17°F (-8.3°C) to 25°F (-3.9°C), and average highs are between 32°F (0°C) to 40°F (4.4°C). This month represents a continuation of the declining temperatures that began in the fall, culminating in the coldest season of the year.
Snowfall becomes widespread in December, accumulating from 60" (1524mm) to 100" (2540mm) statewide, with even higher amounts in the mountainous areas. The White Mountains and the North Country, in particular, see heavy snowfall, making them prime locations for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding.
Rainfall decreases in favor of snow, and the chance of ice and freezing rain becomes more common. The moderating influence of the Atlantic Ocean diminishes, and the northern mountain ranges play a more significant role in shaping the weather, protecting the southern part of the state from some of the more severe cold fronts.
Outdoor activities focus on winter recreation, with numerous ski resorts and winter sports facilities opening for the season. The snowy landscape provides opportunities for snowmobiling, ice skating, and other cold-weather pursuits.
December's weather contrasts sharply with the mild conditions of
November, as temperatures continue to drop and snowfall becomes a regular occurrence. The transformation from late fall to winter is complete, and New Hampshire embraces the season with a host of winter activities and festivities.
The short days and often overcast skies of December create a unique atmosphere, reflecting the state's northern latitude and continental climate. It is a month of contrasts, offering both the challenges of winter weather and the beauty of a snow-covered landscape. The Granite State welcomes winter with open arms, providing residents and visitors alike with a wide variety of outdoor opportunities and seasonal experiences.
- Manchester - December »
In Manchester during December, snow falls for 4 days and regularly aggregates up to 2.99" (76mm) of snow. In Manchester, during December, the rain falls for 6.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 1.1" (28mm) of precipitation. - Nashua - December »
In Nashua in December, during 3.8 snowfall days, 1.26" (32mm) of snow is typically accumulated. The months with the most snowfall in Nashua are February and December, with an average 1.26" (32mm) of accumulated snow. - Concord - December »
In Concord in December, during 7.9 snowfall days, 6.14" (156mm) of snow is typically accumulated. With an average of 9h and 0min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Concord. - Derry - December »
In Derry in December, snow falls for 4 days, with typically accumulated 2.99" (76mm) of snow. In Derry, New Hampshire, in December, it is raining for 6.3 days, with typically 1.1" (28mm) of accumulated precipitation. - Dover - December »
In Dover, New Hampshire, in December, snow falls for 5.4 days, with typically accumulated 3.27" (83mm) of snow. In Dover during December, snow falls for 5.4 days and regularly aggregates up to 3.27" (83mm) of snow. - Rochester - December »
The month with the most snowfall in Rochester is December, when snow falls for 7.2 days and typically aggregates up to 6.69" (170mm) of snow. The month with the most snowfall in Rochester is December, when snow falls for 7.2 days and typically aggregates up to 6.69" (170mm) of snow. - Salem - December »
The month with the shortest days in Salem is December, with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight. In Salem, in December, during 5.3 snowfall days, 4.49" (114mm) of snow is typically accumulated. - Merrimack - December »
In Merrimack, New Hampshire, in December, during 4 snowfall days, 2.99" (76mm) of snow is typically accumulated. In Merrimack, in December, it is raining for 6.3 days, with typically 1.1" (28mm) of accumulated precipitation. - Londonderry - December »
In Londonderry, in December, snow falls for 4 days, with typically accumulated 2.99" (76mm) of snow. December has the shortest days of the year in Londonderry with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight. - Keene - December »
In Keene in December, snow falls for 7.4 days, with typically accumulated 1.61" (41mm) of snow. In Keene in December, during 7.7 rainfall days, 0.87" (22mm) of precipitation is typically accumulated. - Bedford - December »
The month with the most snowfall in Bedford is December, when snow falls for 4 days and typically aggregates up to 2.99" (76mm) of snow. In Bedford, in December, snow falls for 4 days, with typically accumulated 2.99" (76mm) of snow.