New England Winter Storm to Drop 6–9 Inches of Heavy Snow With Near-Freezing Temps and Hazardous Travel Through Wednesday Morning
MAINE AND SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE — A powerful early-December storm is gripping New England this morning, delivering heavy snow, near-freezing temperatures, and rapidly worsening road conditions across southern and central Maine and into southern New Hampshire. The National Weather Service in Gray has a Winter Storm Warning in effect until 4 a.m. Wednesday, with 6 to 9 inches of accumulation expected before the system tapers overnight.
Snow Piles Up Quickly, Slowing Early Commutes
Flakes began covering roads early this morning, leaving major routes coated as commuters encountered slick pavement and reduced visibility. Snow will remain heavy at times, especially between noon and 9 p.m., when the strongest bands move through the region.
Coastal areas may briefly mix with a slushy rain, but forecasters expect colder air to return quickly tonight, changing any mixed precipitation back to snow.
Travel Conditions Expected to Deteriorate This Afternoon
Transportation officials warn of dangerous travel across key corridors:
- I-95
- Route 302
- Route 1
Visibility may drop to near zero during bursts of heavier snow. Drivers are urged to slow down, leave extra following distance, and avoid non-essential trips during peak snowfall hours. Plow crews will be working extended shifts as snow continues to accumulate.
Refreeze and Black Ice Likely Overnight
Temperatures will hover near freezing during the day before sinking into the low 20s tonight. Any snow or slush that melts this afternoon is likely to refreeze, creating patches of black ice on untreated roads and sidewalks Wednesday morning.
Cold, Clear Weather Follows the Storm
Skies begin to clear Wednesday afternoon, but a surge of Arctic air arrives quickly behind the storm:
- Thursday highs: Near 37°F
- Thursday night lows: Teens
- Weekend: Bright but cold, with highs in the 20s and 30s
Another weak disturbance could bring flurries Sunday, though no significant accumulation is expected.
Early December’s Winter Pattern Takes Hold
With accumulating snow, wind-chilled commutes, and overnight refreeze hazards, New England is now firmly in early-winter mode — a pattern likely to continue as colder systems line up for the weeks ahead.
For more weather alerts, travel updates, and winter coverage across the region, keep following ChicagoMusicGuide.com.