Gray, ME – A developing band of wintry precipitation is set to move across western Maine and northern New Hampshire tonight, prompting forecasters to warn residents about slippery travel and rapidly changing road conditions. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for areas likely to see 1–3 inches of snow along with pockets of freezing rain capable of creating slick surfaces through early Sunday morning.
Forecasters at the National Weather Service in Gray noted in their latest update that temperatures will remain below the freezing mark overnight, allowing a thin layer of ice to form on untreated roads and walkways. Even modest totals can quickly become hazardous in higher elevations and shaded road segments, where cold air tends to settle.
Advisory area and expected snow accumulation
The advisory covers Northern Oxford, Southern Oxford, and Northern Franklin counties in Maine and Northern Coos County in New Hampshire. Communities such as Rangeley, Rumford, Bethel, Fryeburg, Norway, Kingfield, Coburn Gore, Errol, Colebrook, Newry, Oquossoc, and Bryant Pond fall within the affected zone.
According to details shared through the National Weather Service’s latest briefing, the system is expected to bring:
- 1–3 inches of snow
- Around 0.10 inches of glaze ice
Timeline of the storm across Maine and New Hampshire
The first bands of light snow are expected to arrive this evening, gradually transitioning into periods of sleet and freezing rain overnight. Meteorologists say the exact mix will vary across the region depending on elevation and temperature shifts.
“Even minor icing can导致 dangerous travel conditions, especially overnight when visibility is already reduced,” the National Weather Service advised.
By daybreak Sunday, precipitation tapers off, but icy patches will likely linger until temperatures rise later in the morning.
Road conditions and travel impacts
As highlighted through updated NWS guidance, the main hazard for drivers will be quick-forming ice on untreated roads, sidewalks, and parking areas. Commuters are urged to slow down and consider delaying nonessential travel during the overnight period. Elevated surfaces such as bridges and overpasses will be particularly vulnerable to sudden icing.
The advisory also notes that pedestrians should use caution on steps, driveways, and other surfaces that may become unexpectedly slick. Residents can monitor updated travel information by checking regional road reports integrated into the NWS advisory.
Why this winter mix creates dangerous conditions
Mixed precipitation often leads to unpredictable and fast-changing conditions. Snow provides traction initially, but sleet and freezing rain create a compacted layer that becomes extremely smooth and hard to navigate. Higher terrain in western Maine and northern New Hampshire is particularly susceptible due to cooler pockets of air and longer periods of subfreezing conditions.
What to expect by Sunday morning
Forecasters expect conditions to improve after sunrise as temperatures gradually rise, allowing ice to melt. However, shaded and elevated areas may remain slick for several hours, and lingering clouds could slow the warming process. Residents planning early travel or outdoor activities should allocate extra time and remain vigilant.
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