Portland, ME – A Snow Squall Warning has been issued this afternoon for portions of southwestern Maine and central to northern New Hampshire, as an intense burst of snow moves rapidly southeast across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, the squall was located near Alton around 3:30 p.m. EST Thursday, moving southeast at 35 mph. The system is expected to impact communities across York County, ME, and the Belknap, Carroll, and Strafford counties of NH through 4:15 p.m.
Forecasters warn of brief but severe conditions including visibility dropping to less than one-quarter mile, gusty winds up to 35 mph, and whiteout conditions capable of turning roads treacherous within minutes.
The squall is expected to reach New Hampshire Route 16 in about 25 minutes, affecting drivers near Wakefield, Rochester, Wolfeboro, Alton, and Laconia, as well as Acton and Shapleigh, Maine.
Motorists are urged to reduce speed, turn on headlights, and avoid sudden braking if caught in the squall. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly, even over short distances.
