If you felt your windows rattle or struggled to walk straight Monday afternoon, you’re not imagining things. A burst of strong wind gusts up to 35 miles per hour swept through Manchester and other parts of New Hampshire, making for an unexpectedly blustery start to the week.
Residents were caught off guard as the afternoon skies looked calm, but the wind told a different story. People were seen holding onto their hats, chasing papers, and struggling with umbrellas as the gusts picked up quickly.
What Happened: Sudden Wind Alert Across New Hampshire
According to local weather reports, a cold front moved through the region Monday, creating sharp pressure differences in the atmosphere. This caused strong, gusty winds to develop by early afternoon, especially in the southern and central parts of the state.
In Manchester, wind speeds reached up to 35 mph, enough to:
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Shake loose branches and small debris
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Knock over trash bins and outdoor signs
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Create driving challenges, especially for high-profile vehicles
These weren’t dangerous storm-force winds, but they were strong enough to disrupt daily routines, especially for those walking, biking, or driving through open areas.
Impacts: What the Strong Winds Meant for Locals
The wind came in fast and strong. Here’s what locals experienced:
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Pedestrians struggled to walk in a straight line, especially downtown.
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Drivers on highways like I-93 and I-293 had to stay extra alert due to crosswinds.
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Garbage cans, loose signs, and decorations were tossed around in some neighborhoods.
Some residents even reported minor damage to fences and lightweight outdoor furniture.
Authorities didn’t issue a full wind warning, but weather alerts were sent out for residents to be cautious, especially during afternoon commutes.
Why So Windy?
Meteorologists say the wind was part of a passing cold front that pushed through New Hampshire. As cooler air from the northwest replaced warmer, moist air, the contrast in temperatures caused the air to move quickly and forcefully across the state.
This kind of wind event is common in the fall and spring, but it still catches people off guard—especially when it’s not tied to a major storm.
When Will the Wind Calm Down?
The strongest gusts were mostly limited to Monday afternoon, but breezy conditions were expected to stick around into the evening hours. By late Monday night, winds are predicted to slow down significantly, allowing for calmer, quieter conditions by Tuesday morning.
No more severe wind events are expected this week, but cooler air will remain in place for a few days.
