Southern New Hampshire, Southwest Maine – Hazardous travel conditions are expected across parts of southern New Hampshire and southwest Maine as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through Saturday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, a Winter Weather Advisory is active until 6 p.m. EST for coastal York County in Maine and much of central and southern New Hampshire, including Merrimack, Belknap, Strafford, Rockingham, and Hillsborough counties. Forecasters expect total snowfall accumulations ranging from 2 to 6 inches, with the potential for locally heavier amounts under persistent snow bands.
The National Weather Service warns that snowfall rates may increase quickly at times, leading to rapid accumulations and extremely dangerous travel conditions, even where overall totals remain moderate. Snow-covered roads may develop quickly during heavier bursts, reducing traction and visibility.
Travel impacts are expected along Interstate 95, Interstate 93, U.S. Route 1, Route 4, Route 11, and Route 101, as well as secondary and rural roadways serving communities such as Portsmouth-area towns, Dover, Rochester, Manchester, Nashua, Concord, Biddeford, Saco, and Old Orchard Beach.
Forecasters emphasize that even lighter snowfall can accumulate on road surfaces, creating slick conditions that may catch drivers off guard. Conditions may deteriorate rapidly over short distances, particularly where snow bands intensify.
Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra time for travel throughout the day. Road conditions can be monitored through NewEngland511.org, which provides real-time updates for Maine and New Hampshire highways.
For commuters, delivery drivers, and weekend travelers, the most challenging conditions are expected from late morning through the afternoon, before snow tapers off later this evening.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and limit unnecessary travel during periods of heavier snowfall.
