Maine greets the morning wrapped in fog, icy air, and quiet streets near freezing.
Headlights glow through low visibility as winter reminds drivers it is fully here.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures trend colder through Christmas before snow chances return for post-holiday travel. The most impactful period arrives late Friday into Saturday, when light snow could affect roads across southern Maine.
Early conditions hover near 32 degrees with patchy fog. That fog lifts, but cold air deepens. Highs remain in the 30s before a sharper chill arrives. By Christmas, clouds dominate, and winds increase, pulling in colder air from the north.
Meteorologists are now tracking reinforcing cold air Thursday night. Temperatures drop into the single digits inland, with teens near the coast. Wind gusts near 30 mph increase the bite. Roads dry quickly, but any leftover moisture may freeze fast after sunset.
Friday stays bright but bitter. Highs struggle to reach the lower 20s. Snow chances return Friday evening as a weak system approaches. Snow does not look heavy, but timing matters for travelers heading home after Christmas.
Conditions may deteriorate gradually. Light snow could begin Friday night and linger into Saturday. Even minor accumulation can create slushy patches, especially during early travel hours. Black ice remains a concern where snow melts briefly during daylight.
To be fair, this is not a major winter storm. Still, December cold increases risk. Bridges, rural roads, and shaded stretches freeze first. Plan extra time Saturday and keep speeds down.
This setup fits the broader Northeast pattern. While parts of the country see record warmth, northern New England locks into winter. Snow chances continue into early next week.
5-Day Outlook for Portland, ME:
- Today: Patchy fog, highs near 34
- Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy, highs near 37
- Thursday: Much colder, highs near 21
- Friday: Cold, snow chance late, highs near 21
- Saturday: Chance of snow, highs near 24
