AUGUSTA — Although Northern Maine has already turned white, the season's first statewide major winter storm is affecting Maine today. Roads are already treacherous, and snow will be heavy at times, affecting visibility. Snow is expected to mix with or change to sleet in some areas, with some light freezing rain also possible.

The storm will persist through the day and into the evening, winding down overnight.

The Maine Emergency Management Agency wants all Mainers to stay informed and keep aware of conditions for their area during this first winter storm to hit statewide.

Following are links for the latest weather updates:

• National Weather Service Gray (southern and western Maine)
• National Weather Service Caribou (northern and eastern Maine)
• Listen to your radio, television or NOAA Weather Radio, or visit one of the websites above for weather reports and emergency information as the storm progresses.

Road Conditions:

• 511 Maine, DOT's Travel Information Service or dial 5-1-1
• Sign up for road condition alerts from MaineDOT
• MaineDOT's Winter Driving Tips

• Safe Driving basics:
— Drive only if necessary;
— Reduce your speed and respect all official speed restrictions;
— Stay a safe distance behind other cars; and
— "Don't crowd the plow."

Stay safe:

For more information on emergency preparedness in winter and all seasons, visit Maine Prepares.

• Check on any neighbors and friends who might need help dealing with the storm.
• If you lose power, and use a generator, use it ONLY outdoors, never in a basement or attached garage. Carbon monoxide kills.
• Maintain ventilation when using kerosene heaters to avoid build-up of toxic fumes. Refuel kerosene heaters outside and keep them at least three feet from flammable objects.

After the storm:

• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. Before you go out to shovel snow, do some stretches to limber up.
• Clear snow from your roof while it is still loose.
• Clear snow away from all chimneys and vents to prevent carbon monoxide buildup inside your house.
• Clear snow away from outside fuel storage tanks, and the filler pipes for your oil tank
• Offer to help neighbors and friends who may need help shoveling out