Maine – Cold air grips southern Maine this morning, and the quiet won’t last. Clouds thicken through the day, and light snow begins to creep in late, dusting roads just as New Year’s travel ramps up.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, light snow develops around midnight and continues into New Year’s Day morning. Accumulations stay under one inch, but timing raises concern. Snow falls during peak holiday travel, and even small amounts could cause slick roads and reduced visibility.
In Portland, South Portland, and Westbrook, pavement temperatures remain cold enough for quick accumulation. I-295, I-95, Route 1, and local bridges could turn slick fast. Side streets and untreated parking lots may glaze over, especially before sunrise on New Year’s Day.
Snow tapers during the morning, then skies gradually brighten. Highs hover near the upper 20s, limiting melt. Any daytime thaw refreezes quickly after sunset, setting up another round of black ice into Thursday night. Winds increase at times, adding bite and lowering wind chills.
Friday brings quieter weather but deeper cold. Sunshine returns, yet highs only reach the low to mid-20s across southern Maine. Overnight lows dip into the single digits, keeping roads icy where snowpack lingers. Travelers should plan extra time and keep winter gear handy.
The first weekend of 2026 stays dry but cold. Saturday remains mostly sunny with highs near 25. Sunday follows suit with continued cold and partly sunny skies. Even without new snow, winter driving conditions persist.
Slow down, especially during late-night and early-morning travel. Winter is firmly in place as 2026 begins. Traveling for New Year’s? Tell us what road conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Portland, ME
- Today: Partly sunny. High near 29°F.
- Tonight: Snow develops late. Less than 1 inch possible. Low near 18°F.
- New Year’s Day: Morning snow, then clearing. High near 28°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny. High near 24°F.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny. High near 25°F.
