A major winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds to much of Maine beginning Monday morning and continuing into early Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service in Caribou.
A winter storm warning is in effect from 7 a.m. Monday to 7 a.m. Tuesday for southern Penobscot County, including Bangor, as well as interior and coastal Hancock and Washington counties. Forecasters expect total snowfall between 7 and 11 inches in those areas, with locally higher amounts possible Down East.
Wind gusts could reach 50 mph along the coast and up to 40 mph in interior areas, leading to blowing snow and possible whiteout conditions. The heaviest snow and strongest winds are expected Monday afternoon and evening.
The weather service said travel could be difficult, affecting both the Monday morning and evening commutes.
A winter storm watch is in effect from Monday morning through Tuesday morning for southern Piscataquis, southeast Aroostook and central Penobscot counties, including Dover-Foxcroft, Milo, Lincoln and Houlton. Snowfall totals of 5 to 8 inches are possible in those areas, with wind gusts up to 35 mph.
Further south, a winter storm warning is also in effect from 1 a.m. Monday to 1 a.m. Tuesday for Kennebec and Androscoggin counties, where 5 to 8 inches of snow are expected and winds could gust up to 40 mph.
Interior and coastal Waldo, Knox, Lincoln and Sagadahoc counties are under a winter storm warning during the same time period, with 6 to 10 inches of snow forecast and gusts up to 45 mph.
Forecasters said blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility statewide. Gusty winds may bring down tree branches, though the overall threat of widespread power outages is considered limited.
Officials advise residents to avoid travel if possible. Drivers who must travel should carry emergency supplies, including a flashlight, food and water. Updated road conditions are available at newengland511.org.
