Maine – Headlights glow through a gray glaze this morning as freezing rain coats trees and roadways across the North Woods. Pavement looks wet but hides a slick bite. Branches sag under growing ice while plows struggle to keep up with changing precipitation.
The National Weather Service says a Winter Storm Warning is in effect across northern and central Maine today, including Aroostook, Piscataquis, Penobscot, and Somerset counties. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain spread north to south early this morning and continue through tonight.
Across Central Highlands and Far Eastern Maine, totals include 1 to 3 inches of snow and sleet with ice up to 0.20 inches. Farther north, including Caribou, Presque Isle, Fort Kent, and Houlton, snow and sleet may reach 2 to 4 inches, with ice also nearing two tenths of an inch.
Roads deteriorate quickly once temperatures hover below freezing. Bridges and overpasses become slick first. Power outages remain a concern as ice loads trees and lines, especially if winds increase later today.
To the south and west, central and northern New Hampshire face a more dangerous icing setup. Freezing rain dominates much of the day, with ice accumulations between 0.30 and 0.50 inches possible. Travel is strongly discouraged as tree damage and power outages become more likely through evening.
Plan extra time if you must travel today. Avoid unnecessary trips. Keep phones charged and flashlights ready. After all, conditions may worsen quickly once precipitation intensifies.
Looking ahead, colder air settles in behind the storm late tonight, increasing the flash-freeze risk for untreated roads early Tuesday.
