Gray, ME – A winter storm expected to move into northern New England will bring dangerous icing conditions and an elevated risk of power outages, particularly across interior Maine and New Hampshire.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, freezing rain is forecast to arrive tomorrow, producing significant ice accumulation across parts of western and interior Maine and much of New Hampshire. The icing will be followed by breezy to gusty winds tomorrow night, increasing the likelihood of tree damage and power outages.
Forecasters warn that travel could become extremely hazardous, especially during periods of freezing rain, as untreated roads, bridges, and sidewalks quickly ice over. Even small amounts of ice can make driving and walking dangerous.
The NWS says the combination of ice buildup on trees and power lines, followed by increasing winds, creates a heightened threat for scattered to potentially widespread power outages across inland communities. The highest risk appears focused away from the immediate coastline, where temperatures are expected to remain slightly warmer.
Residents are urged to prepare now by charging devices, securing alternative heat sources if available, and avoiding unnecessary travel once icing begins. Utility crews are expected to be on standby, but restoration efforts could be slowed if conditions worsen overnight.
Officials also remind residents to use caution with generators and heating equipment to prevent carbon monoxide exposure if outages occur.
Weather conditions are expected to improve after the storm system moves out, but lingering slick spots may persist into the following day, especially in shaded and rural areas.
Residents should continue monitoring forecasts and alerts from the National Weather Service as timing and impacts may change.
