Travel Advisory Issued for Maine and New Hampshire Due to Hazardous Icing Conditions

A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for parts of Maine and New Hampshire, warning of dangerous travel conditions due to freezing rain, sleet, and snow accumulation forecast to begin Tuesday evening, January 6, 2026, and extend into Wednesday morning.

The advisory is in effect from 7 PM Tuesday through 10 AM Wednesday, and residents across affected counties are being urged to take precautions, limit travel, and stay informed on rapidly changing conditions.

Key Highlights:

• Freezing rain and sleet expected across Maine and New Hampshire.
• Ice accumulations up to 0.2 inches and snow up to 2 inches.
• Hazardous road conditions forecast during Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes.
• Officials urge caution, slow travel, and preparedness for power outages.

Mixed Precipitation to Create Treacherous Conditions

According to the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, residents across interior York, Cumberland, Androscoggin, and Kennebec counties in Maine—as well as multiple counties across New Hampshire including Merrimack, Cheshire, and Rockingham—should expect a dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain beginning Tuesday evening.

“Light snowfall accumulations will occur first, followed by a transition to sleet and freezing rain overnight,” warned the NWS. “Icing will make travel hazardous, especially on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses.”

Ice accumulation of up to two-tenths of an inch is expected, which may seem minor but can drastically reduce traction, cause vehicles to slide off roads, and increase the risk of multi-car collisions and fall-related injuries for pedestrians.

Commute Impacts Could Be Severe

Both the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes are expected to be heavily affected by this wintry mix. Authorities stress the importance of allowing extra time for travel and avoiding unnecessary trips during the advisory window.

“We strongly advise the public to stay off the roads during periods of peak icing,” said NWS meteorologist Chris Dooley. “Even a small amount of ice can make roads nearly impassable, especially in hilly or rural areas.”

Drivers are encouraged to:

• Reduce speed and increase following distance.
• Avoid braking suddenly on icy surfaces.
• Stay informed by checking real-time traffic maps and local advisories.

Power Outages a Concern as Ice…