Portland, ME – Early risers across Maine and New Hampshire are waking up to gusty winds, slippery roads, and a sharp chill that hints at what’s to come later this week. Leaves tumble across wet pavement this morning as gusts push past 35 mph in spots — enough to cause minor power flickers and slow-moving traffic on rural highways and bridges.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, winds will increase through midday, reaching 30 to 40 mph across the interior and coastal areas. Some icy patches linger on untreated roads after early flurries, especially in shaded valleys and secondary routes across the Lakes Region and southern Maine. Residents are advised to secure loose decorations and outdoor items as gusts strengthen into the afternoon.
By Friday, calmer weather returns under sunny skies, but temperatures will stay brisk — hovering near freezing for most of the region. Another round of light snow could brush northern New England by late Saturday night into Sunday, bringing a quick dusting ahead of next week’s deeper Arctic push.
Drivers should remain alert for “flash freeze” spots, where melting snow can refreeze rapidly as evening temperatures dip into the teens. Keep extra distance on bridges and overpasses, and use caution if traveling on I-95, Route 2, or through the White Mountains corridor.
5-Day Outlook (Dec. 11–15):
- Friday: Sunny and cold, high 29°F.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, high 33°F.
- Saturday Night: Light snow possible, low 19°F.
- Sunday: Chance of snow, high 29°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high 24°F.
