You’re planning a trip to the Lakes Region, and you’ve probably checked the "official" forecast. Here’s the thing: Meredith New Hampshire weather is a bit of a rebel. Sitting right on the western edge of Lake Winnipesaukee, this town doesn't just follow New England patterns; it creates its own microclimate thanks to all that water.
Honestly, if you expect a standard "four-season" experience, you’re in for a surprise. Meredith basically has six seasons if you count "Mud Season" and "Stick Season," and each one dictates exactly what you can (and definitely cannot) do on the lake.
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The Lake Effect Nobody Mentions
Most people think "lake effect" is just a Great Lakes thing. Wrong. Winnipesaukee is huge—over 44,000 acres—and it acts like a giant thermal battery. In the early summer, the water is still freezing, which keeps the air in Meredith several degrees cooler than it is just ten miles inland in Laconia or Plymouth.
By October, the reverse happens. The lake holds onto the summer heat, often keeping the frost at bay for a week or two longer than the rest of Belknap County. This is why the foliage in Meredith can be so hit-or-miss; sometimes it’s late to the party, but when it hits, it’s spectacular.
Summer: It’s Not Just About the Heat
July is the hottest month, with highs usually hovering around 79°F. But that doesn't tell the whole story. Humidity here is the real kicker. You’ll see dew points climb in late July, making the air feel "heavy."
- Morning Glass: Early mornings (around 5:30 AM) are usually dead calm. This is the only time for serious water skiing.
- The 3 PM Blow: Almost like clockwork, a breeze picks up in the mid-afternoon. If you’re in a small rental boat, get back to Meredith Bay before the "Winni Chop" turns your relaxing cruise into a bouncy mess.
- Thunderstorm Alley: Storms tend to roll in over the White Mountains and intensify as they hit the water. They’re fast, loud, and can be dangerous if you’re caught in the middle of the "Broads."
Meredith New Hampshire Weather and the Ice-Out Obsession
In Meredith, the weather isn't just a conversation starter; it's a gambling opportunity. Every year, people bet on "Ice-Out." This is the official moment when the MS Mount Washington can reach all its ports, including the Meredith town docks.
In 2024, we saw the earliest Ice-Out on record: March 17. That’s wild when you consider the latest was May 12 back in 1888. Most years, it happens around mid-April.
If you’re visiting in late winter, keep an eye on the New England Pond Hockey Classic. Usually held in late January or early February, the weather basically decides the fate of the tournament. In 2026, the event is slated for January 30 to February 1. While the organizers aim for Meredith Bay, "Mother Nature" occasionally forces them to move to smaller, shallower ponds if the big lake hasn't caught enough ice. January temperatures average a high of 29°F and a low of 13°F, but it's the wind chill off the open lake that’ll actually get you.
Why Fall is the "Expert" Season
If you want the best of Meredith New Hampshire weather, come in September. The crowds are gone, the mugginess has vanished, and the water is still warm enough for a quick dip.
- September Highs: Usually around 69°F.
- The Vibe: Crisp mornings that require a flannel, followed by afternoons where you’re fine in a t-shirt.
- Rain: October is actually the wettest month on average, seeing about 4.4 inches of rain. If you’re leaf-peeping, bring a raincoat and don't expect "bluebird" skies every day.
Snow and the Winter Reality
Don't let the "scenic village" vibe fool you; winter here is a workout. Meredith gets about 80 inches of snow a year. January and February are the heavy hitters, often dumping 15-20 inches a month.
What's interesting is how the town handles it. Because Meredith is a hub for snowmobilers (thanks to the corridor trails), a "bad" winter here isn't a snowy one—it's a warm one. If it rains in February, the local economy feels it. We need those sub-freezing nights to keep the trails groomed and the lake safe for the Great Rotary Fishing Derby in February.
Survival Tips for Meredith Weather
Basically, you've gotta dress like an onion. Layers are everything. If you're going out on a boat in June, bring a sweatshirt. Even if it's 75°F on land, the air over 50-degree water is a different beast.
Check the Mount Washington Observatory's regional forecast rather than just a generic weather app. They understand the terrain better than a global algorithm. Also, if you see the "clouds sitting on the mountains" to the north, rain is usually about two hours away from hitting Meredith.
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Next Steps for Your Trip:
Download the "Winnipesaukee" app to track real-time water temperatures and wind speeds, especially if you plan on being on the water. If you're coming for the foliage, aim for the second week of October, but book your stay at one of the inns like Mill Falls well in advance, as the "weather-perfect" weekends fill up years out.