Caribou, Maine – Winter Weather Advisories are in effect across much of northern and central Maine on New Year’s Day, with accumulating snow expected to create hazardous travel conditions through Thursday evening and overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, advisories cover northern Penobscot County, southeast and northeast Aroostook County from 4 a.m. Thursday through midnight. Central and southern Penobscot County, including the Bangor area, are under an advisory through 7 p.m. Thursday.
Forecasters expect total snowfall accumulations between 3 and 6 inches across the region. The highest totals are forecast along the Route 1 corridor in Aroostook County. Winds are expected to increase Thursday night, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph, which may lead to areas of blowing snow and reduced visibility.
Impacted communities include Caribou, Presque Isle, Houlton, Van Buren, Millinocket, East Millinocket, Medway, Orono, Old Town, Brewer, and Bangor. Snow-covered roads and limited visibility are likely, particularly during heavier snowfall periods and as winds increase later in the day.
The National Weather Service warned that slippery road conditions may persist throughout the day, affecting both daytime travel and evening commutes. Rural roads and less-traveled routes may become snow-covered more quickly, while bridges and overpasses could turn slick early.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and use caution while traveling. Motorists are encouraged to check the latest road conditions through New England 511 before heading out.
While snowfall is expected to taper Thursday night, lingering slick spots may remain into early Friday, especially in northern and higher-elevation areas.
