Maine — Headlights sweep across damp pavement as temperatures slip below freezing, turning leftover rain into a quiet but dangerous threat. Early winter conditions are settling in fast across southern and central Maine, with slick spots possible before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service, standing water from Friday’s rain may refreeze early this morning as temperatures fall into the upper 20s and lower 30s. Bridges, untreated side roads, and shaded areas could become icy quickly. Drivers heading out early should slow down and allow extra travel time.
Skies trend cloudier through the day, with highs reaching the mid-30s in Portland and nearby coastal towns. Inland areas across southern New Hampshire and interior Maine remain colder. While winds stay manageable, the cold ground keeps refreezing concerns active into tonight.
Sunday offers a brief break. Partial sunshine pushes highs into the low 40s, though the relief is short-lived. Colder air returns Sunday night, with lows dropping into the teens inland. Any moisture left on roads could freeze again by early Monday.
Monday stays bright but sharply colder. Highs hover near 30, reinforcing a winter mindset as travel increases heading into the holiday week. Meteorologists are tracking an early winter signal for Tuesday, when snow becomes likely across parts of southern New Hampshire and southwest Maine.
Latest models hint at accumulating snow during the day Tuesday, potentially affecting daytime travel. While exact amounts remain uncertain, the timing raises concerns for commuters and holiday travelers.
Looking ahead to Christmas travel, conditions may moderate slightly midweek, though winter patterns stay active. Residents returning home should prepare for icy mornings, quick weather changes, and possible snow impacts early in the week.
Have you encountered slick roads this morning? Let us know what conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook — Portland, ME
- Today: Increasing clouds, high near 35
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 41
- Monday: Sunny and cold, high near 30
- Tuesday: Snow likely, high near 37
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 35
