ME Weather: Wintry Mix, Heavy Snow To Hit Northern Part Of State

CARIBOU, ME — Mainers living in the northernmost part of the state should brace for yet another winter weather system expected to bring rain, sleet, snow and ice to several counties Thursday into Friday.

A winter storm warning is in effect from 7 p.m. Thursday until 10 a.m. Friday for northwest Aroostook County. This includes the cities of Allagash, Clayton Lake, Madawaska, Fort Kent and Frenchville.

According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, rain on Thursday night is expected to change to a wintry mix and snow, bringing anywhere from 5-11 inches of new snow to the area. A light glaze of ice will accompany sleet with accumulations expected to reach one-third of an inch.

Winds could also pose a hazard, according to forecasters. Winds are expected to gust as high as 35 mph.

Travel conditions in Aroostook County could be difficult, forecasters said. Blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility and affect the morning commute. Power outages are also possible.

Meanwhile, a winter weather advisory is in effect for northeast Aroostook County. The advisory — in effect from midnight until 12 p.m. Friday — also includes northern Somerset and northern Piscataquis counties.

Rain is expected to change to a wintry mix into Friday, bringing sleet accumulations around three-quarters of an inch and ice accumulations around one-tenth of an inch. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches are possible.

More snow is expected north of Caribou to Van Buren, forecasters said. Winds could also gust as high as 35 mph.

Travelers in the affected counties should plan for slippery road conditions and a difficult morning commute. Power outages also are possible.