Weekend Snow, Arctic Air Bring Slick Roads to Sullivan County

A compact winter system moved through Sullivan County on December 14, leaving light snow and pockets of slick travel before a reinforcing surge of Arctic air and strong winds arrived Sunday night and into Monday. Local roads saw intermittent accumulation, generally an inch or two in many places, while gusty winds pushed temperatures down to create wind chill values below zero across much of the region.

Sunday was designated an impact day as the light snow created slippery spots on secondary roads and in shaded areas. Drivers reported slower commutes and officials urged motorists to allow extra travel time. Municipal public works crews focused on priority routes, but side streets and rural stretches remained vulnerable to slick conditions as temperatures fell and winds increased.

The stronger winds that followed produced hazardous morning wind chill values for several days, raising public health concerns for people without reliable heat, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. Local emergency management officials emphasized preparing for cold weather impacts on vulnerable populations and on utilities. Power companies monitored lines as strong wind and falling temperatures can increase the risk of outages and make restoration work more difficult.

Schools and town services adjusted schedules and announcements in response to the weather. Residents were encouraged to follow local school and town updates for closures or service changes, and to plan for longer commutes when roads are slick. Community checks on elderly neighbors and households with limited heat are a practical step to prevent cold related illness.

For up to the minute conditions, residents should monitor WMUR radar and local forecast resources and heed advisories from town officials and emergency management. While the snowfall totals were modest, the rapid transition to very cold air and strong winds amplified the public health and infrastructure risks. Planning for extended cold, ensuring adequate heating and supplies, and checking on the most vulnerable neighbors can reduce the immediate harms and help communities through the colder days ahead.