Keene, NH — A powerful late-season winter storm is expected to deliver heavy ice, sleet, and snow across western and central New Hampshire through noon Sunday, significantly disrupting travel and increasing the risk of power outages.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, ME, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from midnight Friday through 12 p.m. Sunday for Cheshire, Merrimack, Sullivan, and western and central Hillsborough counties. The storm will bring ice accumulations between a quarter and three-quarters of an inch, with localized areas receiving sleet and minor snowfall.
The greatest hazards stem from the potential for downed tree limbs and power lines due to ice buildup. Officials warned that power outages may be “elevated to locally significant,” and roads could be “dangerous and not advised” for travel during the storm period.
Residents in cities such as Keene, Concord, Claremont, and Milford are urged to prepare emergency supplies and avoid non-essential travel. If travel is unavoidable, drivers should carry flashlights, food, and water, and exercise extreme caution.
Motorists can monitor road conditions via newengland511.org. Authorities emphasize winterizing vehicles and maintaining distance when driving on icy roads.
