Five Things You Need to Know Today, Jan. 2

1. Today's weather: The National Weather Service is calling for a slight chance of snow showers between 11 a.m. and noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 24. On Wednesday night, it will be mostly clear, with a low around 8. Wind chill values as low as -3. West wind 9 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

2. Christmas tree disposal: From Jan. 2 through Jan. 11, the city will collect Christmas trees from the curbside on trash and recycling days. Residents also may bring Christmas trees to the Recycling Center for disposal. 

3. New parking rates Thursday: The city's new downtown tiered parking rates that will charge $1.50 per hour on the highest density streets go into effect on Thursday, Jan. 3. Residents and visitors will also be able to park on some city streets for up to three hours. Wednesday, Jan. 2 is the final day for free downtown holiday parking.

4. Historic District Commission meeting: The Portsmouth Historic District Commission will meet on Wednesday at City Hall at 7 p.m.

5. Kids head back to school: Portsmouth school children will be heading back to classes on Wednesday morning following their Christmas vacation.