New Hampshire is heading straight into the furnace this week. By Wednesday afternoon, it could feel like 107°F across Manchester and much of southern New Hampshire, making it one of the hottest stretches of the year so far. With that kind of heat on the horizon, health risks will spike, car engines could overheat, and highways like I‑293 might as well be frying pans. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning, urging everyone to stay indoors, stay hydrated, and stay alert.
What’s Fueling This Dangerous Heat?
This isn’t just “hot weather.” What we’re experiencing is a classic Northeast heat dome—a pocket of high pressure that traps heat and humidity right at the surface. The sun’s intensity builds day after day, pushing temperatures to their peak and leaving very little nighttime cooling. That means even at night, it stays hot, which can take a serious toll on the body.
Tuesday’s high will hit around 97°F, but it will feel hotter due to extreme humidity. Wednesday won’t bring much relief, with the heat index still expected to hover near 107°F. That’s a level of heat that can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke in less than an hour if you’re outdoors and unprepared.
Why I‑293 Is a Trouble Spot
For anyone driving along Interstate 293, especially during the afternoon commute, the combination of blazing asphalt, stop-and-go traffic, and vehicle strain creates a recipe for breakdowns—or worse. Surface temperatures on roads can easily exceed 130°F, especially during peak sun hours between 2 and 5 p.m.
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Engines can overheat faster than usual.
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Tires are more likely to fail on superheated roads.
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Driver fatigue becomes more common in high heat, especially without working A/C.
That’s why drivers are being advised to carry extra water, check their coolant levels, and avoid long travel during the hottest part of the day.
The Extra Layer: Afternoon Storm Risk
On Wednesday, forecasters expect scattered thunderstorms to develop late in the day as cooler air starts pushing in. While they could offer a brief break from the heat, they bring their own risks:
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Flash flooding in low-lying areas
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Sudden gusty winds on highways
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Slick roads right when commuters hit peak travel
If you’re on I‑293 or planning a trip along any major road near Manchester, keep an eye on the sky and plan for possible delays or detours.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
This heat wave isn’t just unpleasant—it’s dangerous. Here’s how to get through it safely:
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Avoid outdoor activity from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Hydrate constantly, even if you’re not thirsty—dehydration hits fast in humid conditions.
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Keep your home cool: close blinds, use fans, and avoid ovens and stoves.
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Check on elderly neighbors, kids, and pets—they’re the most vulnerable.
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If you’re driving, carry cold water, check your engine and tires before leaving, and avoid idling in traffic during peak heat.
Forecast Snapshot
Tuesday:
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Actual High: 97°F
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Heat Index: Feels like 105–107°F
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Conditions: Mostly sunny, risk of evening storms
Wednesday:
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High: 92°F
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Heat Index: Near 100°F
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Afternoon storm chances increase—watch the roads
Thursday:
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High: 76°F
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Conditions: Cooler, showers likely—finally some relief
