Lifestyle Trend: Heavy Snowstorm Warning Upgraded for Maine and New Hampshire as Forecast Worsens You Should Know

The National Weather Service has upgraded winter weather advisories to Winter Storm Warnings across large portions of Maine and New Hampshire, as meteorologists report a strengthening storm system expected to deliver heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions from late Sunday through Monday.

Updated forecasts indicate that the storm will be more intense and longer-lasting than previously anticipated, prompting heightened concern among weather and emergency officials.

10 to 18 inches of snow forected accross the both states

According to the National Weather Service office in Gray, Maine, snowfall totals of 10 to 18 inches are now expected across south-central, southwest, west-central, and western Maine, with locally higher amounts possible where persistent snowbands develop.

The warning for much of Maine is in effect from 7 p.m. Sunday through early Tuesday morning, covering a wide geographic area that includes Portland, Lewiston, Augusta, and numerous inland and coastal communities.

Forecasters warn that snowfall will not be steady throughout the event. Instead, periods of intense snowfall are likely, with rates capable of rapidly accumulating snow on roadways and sharply reducing visibility. “The potential exists for snowbands that will bring periods of locally heavy snowfall, which will lead to rapid snow accumulations and extremely dangerous travel conditions,” the National Weather Service stated in its advisory.

In neighboring New Hampshire, Winter Storm Warnings are in effect from Sunday afternoon through Monday evening for central, northern, and southern parts of the state. Snow accumulations of 12 to 18 inches are forecast statewide, including the White Mountains, Lakes Region, and southern New Hampshire. The NWS cautioned that both the Monday morning and evening commutes are likely to be significantly impacted by snow-covered roads and near-whiteout conditions at times.

In New York, Snow Total To Reach up to 24 Inches

The storm is part of a broader regional weather system affecting much of the Northeast. Winter Storm Warnings have also been issued across southern New England, eastern New York, and Vermont. In parts of the Catskills, Berkshires, and southern Green Mountains, snow totals could reach up to 24 inches, according to the National Weather Service in Albany, New York. Snow is expected to overspread the region from south to north Sunday morning, with the heaviest snowfall occurring Sunday afternoon and evening.

Severe Travel Impacts Across the Region

Travel impacts are expected to be severe across the region, particularly during periods of heavy snowfall when visibility drops and road conditions deteriorate rapidly. Bridges and overpasses are expected to become especially slick, increasing the risk of accidents. Officials stress that even well-treated roads may become hazardous during peak snowfall rates.

Emergency management officials and meteorologists are urging residents to prepare in advance and reconsider non-essential travel.

The National Weather Service advises motorists who must travel to carry emergency supplies, including food, water, and a flashlight, and to check the latest road conditions through regional travel information systems such as NewEngland511.org.

“A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather conditions will make travel extremely dangerous,” the National Weather Service emphasized. Residents are strongly encouraged to delay travel if possible and use extreme caution if travel is unavoidable.

As the storm approaches, forecasters note that conditions may change rapidly, leaving little time for last-minute preparations. With multiple National Weather Service offices in agreement on the storm’s severity, officials stress that early planning and adherence to safety guidance will be critical in reducing risk and ensuring public safety across Maine, New Hampshire, and the broader New England region.