CONCORD, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) As winter enthusiasts flock to New Hampshire’s lakes and ponds for ice fishing and outdoor recreation, state officials are urging caution amid fluctuating weather conditions that have made ice unpredictable and, in some areas, dangerously weak.

New Hampshire Fish and Game officials warn that despite seemingly thick ice, recent temperature swings, wind patterns, and precipitation have created hazardous conditions on many frozen waterbodies.

“With erratic weather, ice that appears safe may not be,” said Colonel Kevin Jordan, Chief of Fish and Game’s Law Enforcement Division. “We strongly advise people to check ice thickness before venturing out.”

According to officials, recent strong winds have weakened ice on larger waterbodies, while snow-covered ice can create a false sense of security. They emphasize that ice thickness is not uniform, and conditions can vary even on the same lake or pond.

Guidelines for Ice Safety

Experts from the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research & Engineering Laboratory recommend at least six inches of hard ice for walking and eight to ten inches for snowmobiles or off-highway recreational vehicles. However, even thick ice can be unsafe if it has been weakened by thawing and refreezing cycles.

Areas with currents, such as inlets, outlets, and spring holes, are particularly dangerous, as moving water prevents solid ice formation. Officials also advise against driving cars or trucks onto the ice.

For those heading out, safety tips include:

  • Avoid venturing onto the ice during warm spells or thaws.
  • Stay clear of cracked or slushy ice near shorelines, docks, and rocks.
  • Be wary of thin, clear, or honeycombed ice, which is weaker than solid, blue ice.
  • Never gather in groups on less than 8–10 inches of hard ice.
  • Carry safety gear, including ice picks, a rescue rope, and a personal flotation device.

If someone falls through the ice, officials advise against rushing to their aid. Instead, use a rope, tree branch, or similar tool to reach them from a safe distance while lying flat on the ice to distribute weight.

For more information and a video on checking ice thickness, visit www.wildlife.nh.gov/get-outside/stay-safe-ice