Valentine’s Day in New Hampshire usually brings a chill, and the weather can really shape your plans. You’ll see average temperatures anywhere from the teens up to the 30s Fahrenheit, and there’s a good chance snow will still be on the ground, especially up north.
The White Mountains and higher spots feel colder, while places like Portsmouth or Nashua in the south are a bit milder.
February often brings snow, and storms can still show up around mid-month. You might find yourself walking through fresh powder or bundling up against icy winds.
But you could also get those clear, crisp blue-sky days that make skiing or a scenic drive feel extra inviting.
If you know what to expect, you can plan for both the cold and the charm of a New England winter holiday. Cozy dinners in town or a quick escape to the mountains both feel different when you understand the typical weather patterns around Valentine’s Day.
Typical Valentine’s Day Weather in New Hampshire
Mid-February brings cold air, frequent snow underfoot, and short days. The weather changes depending on whether you’re in southern cities like Manchester or Portsmouth, or farther north in Berlin where the winters hit harder.
Average Temperatures on February 14
Mid-February is usually the coldest stretch of the year in New Hampshire. In southern places such as Manchester and Portsmouth, average highs reach about 2–3°C (36–37°F), and lows fall near -5 to -7°C (19–23°F).
Farther north in Berlin, things get colder. Highs hover around -2°C (28°F), and nighttime lows can dip to -14°C (7°F).
Even during the warmest part of the day, the air usually feels brisk and wintry.
Snow cover sticks around across the state in February. You’ll want to plan for icy walkways, snow-packed trails, and cold evenings if you’re out after dark.
Wind Chill and Gusty Conditions
Wind speeds change how the cold feels. In February, average wind speeds run about 10–11 kph (6–7 mph) in inland towns and 17 kph (10–11 mph) along the Portsmouth coast.
Even a moderate breeze can make things feel much colder. For example, -7°C (19°F) with a 15 kph wind can feel more like -12°C (10°F).
Northern valleys sometimes get stronger gusts, especially after a snowstorm.
Dress in layers that block wind, especially if you’ll be walking in open areas, near lakes, or along the seacoast.
Sunshine, Cloud Cover, and Daylight
February days stay short, but daylight is slowly growing. Around Valentine’s Day, you get about 10.5 hours of daylight in southern New Hampshire, and a little less up north.
Skies are often partly cloudy to mostly cloudy. In Manchester and Portsmouth, you’ll see clear or partly clear skies about 45–47% of the time.
Berlin, farther north, only gets clearer skies about 35% of the time.
You shouldn’t expect long stretches of sunshine. Still, when the sun comes out, snow on the ground reflects the light, making afternoons feel a bit brighter.
Snowfall and Precipitation Patterns
Valentine’s Day in New Hampshire often brings a mix of snow and rain, depending on where you are. Elevation, how close you are to the coast, and storm tracks all play a part in what you’ll get.
Average Snowfall Amounts
You’ll usually see measurable snow on the ground in February pretty much everywhere in New Hampshire. Northern areas like Berlin average 15 to 20 inches of snowfall during the month, while southern cities like Manchester get closer to 8 to 12 inches.
Snow doesn’t fall all at once. It builds up through several smaller storms.
In the higher White Mountains, totals can be much higher, sometimes double what you see in the southern valleys.
Coastal towns like Portsmouth usually get less snow than inland spots. Warm Atlantic air sometimes turns storms into a wintry mix, which cuts down on snow depth.
Chances of Snow Showers
You’ll have a pretty good chance of seeing snow on or around Valentine’s Day. History shows February is one of the snowiest months in New Hampshire, with about 10 to 15 days of measurable snow statewide.
In central and northern regions, nearly half of all Valentine’s Days see at least some snow showers.
Farther south, the odds drop a bit thanks to warmer air and occasional rain.
Snow showers can be anything from light flurries to heavier bursts from coastal storms. These storms often move up the East Coast in mid to late winter, and if cold air is in place, you could get several inches in just a day.
Recent Weather Trends
Recent winters have brought more ups and downs in precipitation patterns. Studies say annual precipitation in southern New Hampshire has gone up since the 1970s, with more frequent heavy rain and wet snow.
This means Valentine’s Day weather isn’t as predictable as it used to be. Some years bring steady snow, while others lean toward rain or a mix, especially in the south and near the coast.
Northern New Hampshire still gets reliable snow cover through February. Ski towns and mountain spots usually have a solid snowpack, while southern communities often see more thaws that shrink snow depth by mid-month.
Regional Weather Variations Across New Hampshire
Weather in New Hampshire really shifts depending on where you are. Elevation, how close you are to the Atlantic, and latitude all shape temperatures, snowfall, and wind in mid-February.
Mountain Towns Versus Coastal Areas
If you head to the White Mountains or towns like Berlin, you’ll notice it’s colder than along the coast. February highs often stay in the upper 20s °F, and lows can drop into the single digits.
Snowfall is heavier too, with monthly averages above 15 inches in some northern mountain towns.
By contrast, coastal places like Portsmouth feel a bit milder. Highs usually reach the mid-30s °F, and lows stick around the 20s °F.
Snowfall is lighter here, averaging closer to 10–11 inches for the month.
Wind exposure changes too. Mountain valleys trap cold air, while higher ridges get stronger gusts.
Coastal areas, influenced by the Atlantic, get steadier breezes but not quite as much extreme cold.
Northern and Southern Differences
The north, including towns near the Canadian border, stays colder and snowier. Average February lows in places like Berlin often hit 7°F, and snow piles up quickly.
Storms moving through New England usually drop more snow here than in the south.
Southern areas like Manchester and Concord aren’t quite as harsh. Highs in February climb into the mid-30s °F, with lows in the upper teens or low 20s °F.
Snow still falls, but averages closer to 12 inches for the month.
Because of these differences, you’ll find travel more challenging up north. Roads can stay snow-covered longer, while southern highways clear up faster after storms.
How to Prepare for Valentine’s Day Weather
Cold air, snow showers, and icy roads can all show up in New Hampshire during mid-February. You’ll want to plan ahead for comfort and safety, especially if you’ll be outside or driving to dinner, events, or a weekend trip.
Recommended Clothing and Packing Tips
Temperatures often stick in the 20s to 30s °F during the day, with colder lows at night. Dressing in layers works best to stay warm and adjust when you move between indoors and outdoors.
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away. Add an insulating middle layer, like fleece or wool.
Finish with a windproof and waterproof outer layer to block snow or freezing rain.
Bring insulated gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf or neck gaiter. Thick socks and waterproof boots are a must if you’ll be outside, since sidewalks and parking lots can be icy.
If you’re traveling, pack an extra set of warm clothes, especially if you’ll drive through rural areas where weather can change fast.
A small bag with hand warmers, lip balm, and moisturizer helps with the dry winter air.
Staying Safe During Winter Weather
Snow and ice can make driving in New Hampshire tricky around Valentine’s Day. Check the forecast before you leave and give yourself extra travel time.
Keep your gas tank at least half full in case you get delayed.
Carry a winter car kit with:
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Small shovel
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Blanket and bottled water
If you’re walking downtown or to a restaurant, watch for icy patches on sidewalks and parking lots. Wear boots with good grip to avoid slipping.
When you plan outdoor activities like skiing or snowshoeing, check trail conditions and be ready for sudden drops in temperature.
Even short outings can turn risky if you’re not dressed right or lose daylight.
Weather Impact on Valentine’s Day Activities
Cold temperatures and frequent snow shape how folks plan their holiday in New Hampshire. Winter weather often supports outdoor fun, but it can also cause travel delays and safety headaches.
Outdoor Winter Sports and Recreation
Snow is common in February, and many spots in New Hampshire have several inches on the ground by mid-month. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are all popular.
Resorts in the White Mountains usually report reliable snow cover, so you’ll find good conditions for both downhill and cross-country trails.
If you’re into skating, frozen ponds and rinks are usually safe, but always check local advisories. Ice thickness can change after a warm spell or rain.
Dressing in layers with waterproof outerwear keeps you comfortable when temperatures run from the teens to 30s °F.
Wind chills can make things feel colder, especially up high. Carry extra gear like hand warmers, insulated boots, and a face covering to protect against frostbite if you’re out for a while.
Travel Considerations
Snow and ice often make driving tough during mid-February. Even a little snow can make rural roads slick, while bigger storms sometimes close mountain passes.
Give yourself extra time and check state Department of Transportation updates before heading out.
Air travel sometimes faces delays when winter storms move through the Northeast. If you’re flying into Manchester or Boston, keep your plans flexible in case of cancellations.
Packing a winter car kit is smart. Blankets, a shovel, ice scraper, and snacks can help if you get stuck.
For local trips, four-wheel drive or snow tires are a good idea, since many small towns have steep, winding roads that stay icy longer.
Public transportation doesn’t run everywhere in rural areas, so plan ahead if you’d rather not drive in bad weather.
Historical Weather Events Around Valentine’s Day
Weather in New Hampshire during mid-February can swing wildly. One year might bring quiet, cold days, while the next could see disruptive snow or ice storms.
These patterns shape travel, outdoor plans, and even local traditions tied to the holiday.
Notable February Storms
New Hampshire’s seen plenty of winter storms roll in right around Valentine’s Day. Heavy snow usually happens when moist Atlantic air smacks into cold Canadian air.
That mix tends to spark nor’easters, and sometimes those storms dump more than a foot of snow in parts of the state. It’s not rare for schools to shut down or for travel to grind to a halt.
People have lost power during these storms, and ice storms can hit, too—especially down south. Freezing rain sometimes covers roads and snaps tree limbs.
Up north, snow piles up fast when these systems move through. Ski resorts often celebrate, but drivers? Not so much, since the roads can get nasty in a hurry.
If you’re planning to travel, it’s smart to keep an eye on the forecast. The weather can flip quickly, and sometimes you’ll face a few days of disruptions.
Long-Term Climate Patterns
Over the decades, Valentine’s week in New Hampshire has brought a mix of cold snaps and the occasional thaw. In the southern towns, average highs usually climb into the upper 30s °F.
Up north, temperatures tend to hang out in the 20s °F. At night, lows sometimes drop into the single digits, especially further inland.
Records show some wild swings. Some years, folks have woken up to subzero mornings. Other times, a quick warm-up melts the snow and leaves everything soggy.
This kind of variability really comes from New Hampshire’s spot between cold Canadian air and the milder Atlantic breezes.
By mid-February, most of the state sits under a decent snow cover. The southern areas might see just a few inches, but the mountains can get over a foot.
So, if you’re planning anything outdoors, it’s smart to expect cold and snow most years. Still, you never know when a sudden warm spell or icy stretch might show up.