Bangor, Maine — A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, as accumulating snow develops tonight and intensifies across Downeast Maine on Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, a shortwave disturbance moving through the region will bring snow beginning Wednesday night (New Year’s Eve), with the majority of accumulation expected during the day Thursday. The watch includes Hancock County and portions of Washington County, where significant snowfall is possible.
Forecast guidance shows relatively dry, fluffy snow, which may become blowing snow Thursday night, especially across northern sections of the state. Areas farther north could see additional accumulating snow Thursday night, though confidence in exact totals remains moderate due to uncertainty in the storm’s track.
Roadways likely to be impacted include I-95 from Bangor northward, US-1 along the Downeast coast, Route 9 (Airline Road), and Route 1A near Ellsworth and Brewer. Travel conditions may deteriorate quickly Thursday, with reduced visibility in open areas and untreated roads becoming snow-covered.
Temperatures will remain colder than normal, with wind chills dropping to around −10°F across Downeast Maine and as low as −20°F in northern Maine Thursday night. These conditions may pose additional hazards for motorists in the event of delays or breakdowns.
The National Weather Service urges residents and travelers to closely monitor forecast updates, prepare for winter driving conditions, and use caution if traveling on New Year’s Day.
