Winter storm warning in effect for coastal Maine with heavy snow anticipated
The first widespread winter storm of the season is produce snow Tuesday into Wednesday, followed by colder temperatures later in the week. (Image courtesy National Weather Service)
The first widespread winter storm of the season is produce snow Tuesday into Wednesday, followed by colder temperatures later in the week. (Image courtesy National Weather Service)The National Weather Service has been watching a storm trundle into focus for several days, and at noon, Dec. 1, issued a winter storm warning for southern and Midcoast Maine, including the coastal towns to Belfast, and inland to Searsmont and Appleton, Whitefield.
The warning remains in effect from Tuesday to early Wednesday morning, Dec. 3 as the storm heads up the coast from New Jersey to Cape Cod, to Maine.
Heavy snow is expected with total snow accumulations between four and seven inches. Northeast winds will blow five to 15 mph, before turning around from the north, with gusts up to 25 mph.
"Periods of moderate snow and low visibility will be the biggest hazards," said the NWS. "Heavy wet snow may cause weighted tree limbs, leading to snapped branches. Isolated outages possible. Periods of moderate and heavy snow will combine with low visibility to create dangerous driving conditions.... It is possible that snow may mix with or change to rain for a period of time Tuesday, especially close to the immediate coast. However this is the first significant snowfall threat of the season and hazardous travel is anticipated no matter what the snowfall totals end up being."
Keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions can be obtained by going to newengland511.org
"Persons should delay all travel if possible," said the NWS. "If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns. Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order."
And then.... it will turn cold.
"The weather will briefly turn quieter on Wednesday before an Arctic cold front brings snow squalls and breezy conditions Thursday afternoon and evening before temperatures turn sharply colder to end the week," said the NWS. "Additional snow shower activity is possible again this weekend as a series of disturbances cross the region."
