Portland, Maine – Drivers across much of Maine and New Hampshire could encounter slick, snow-covered roads overnight Tuesday as a weak but widespread system brings accumulating snow just in time for the Wednesday morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 7 p.m. Tuesday through 4 p.m. Wednesday for large portions of south-central, southwest, and western Maine, as well as central and northern New Hampshire. Snow totals are expected to range from 3 to 5 inches, with the highest impacts tied to untreated secondary roads and early morning travel.
Snow is expected to overspread the region Tuesday evening, gradually accumulating overnight across interior York, Cumberland, Androscoggin, Kennebec, Oxford, Franklin, and Somerset counties. In New Hampshire, areas including Strafford, Carroll, Grafton, and Coos counties are also expected to see steady light snowfall. While rates will remain modest, road surfaces could become slick quickly as snow compacts overnight.
The greatest impacts are expected during the Wednesday morning commute in cities such as Portland, Lewiston, Auburn, Augusta, Brunswick, Conway, Dover, and Berlin. Even coastal communities could see snow-covered roads where treatment is delayed.
Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra time Wednesday morning. Conditions may improve gradually Wednesday afternoon as snowfall tapers, but slick spots could linger. Travelers are encouraged to monitor road conditions through New England 511 as the advisory remains in effect through mid-afternoon Wednesday.
