Gray, ME – A Winter Weather Advisory is set to impact central and northern New Hampshire from 7 p.m. Saturday to 7 a.m. Sunday, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain that could make travel dangerous across the region. The National Weather Service’s report, referenced through its latest update from Gray, highlights a rapidly evolving weather setup expected to worsen after sunset.
Forecasters warn that even minor amounts of snow and ice can quickly create slick surfaces on untreated roads, especially as temperatures remain below freezing throughout the event.
Expected Snow, Sleet, and Ice Accumulation
The incoming system is forecast to deliver up to one inch of snow, paired with sleet accumulations near one-tenth of an inch and icing of around one-tenth of an inch.
According to the National Weather Service, this combination can significantly reduce traction on roadways and increase the risk of sliding, particularly in higher elevations and shaded areas where ice tends to form more quickly.
Areas Included in the Advisory
The advisory covers a broad stretch of New Hampshire, including:
- Sullivan
- Southern Carroll
- Southern Grafton
- Northern Carroll
- Northern Grafton
- Southern Coos
Many well-traveled communities such as Berlin, Littleton, Plymouth, Claremont, North Conway, Lancaster, Lebanon, Ossipee, Jackson, Rumney, Moultonborough, and Waterville Valley should prepare for sudden deterioration in conditions once the storm begins.
Travel Impacts and Road Safety Concerns
Light snowfall paired with increasingly icy conditions can create unpredictable hazards after sunset.
“Even light snowfall and minor icing can accumulate quickly on untreated roads,” the NWS noted in its advisory, emphasizing the importance of delaying unnecessary travel.
Drivers may encounter slippery spots on back roads, bridges, and overpasses where ice forms fastest. Evening commuters should be prepared for slower travel times as sleet and freezing rain begin mixing with snow shortly after the advisory starts.
Timing of the Storm and Expected Conditions
The wintry mix is expected to move in near 7 p.m., gradually intensifying into the night before tapering off early Sunday morning. The combination of below-freezing temperatures and mixed precipitation will likely cause black ice concerns that may persist into the early hours before sunrise.
Residents should use caution on stairs, sidewalks, and driveways, as walkways may become slick and pose a fall risk.
Safety Tips for Residents
To stay safe during the advisory, residents are encouraged to:
- Limit travel during peak icing periods
- Keep headlights on low beam in snowy or foggy conditions
- Allow extra time for evening commutes
- Use sand or salt on driveways and walkways
These precautions can help reduce the risk of accidents and falls as temperatures drop.
Early Sunday Improvement Expected
Weather models suggest a gradual improvement by early Sunday, with temperatures beginning to rise and precipitation tapering off. However, icy spots may persist in shaded areas and higher terrain, so caution is still advised for those traveling early in the morning.
Share your experiences in the comments below.
