Maine Weather: Winter Storm Watch Follows Near-Record Warmth

PORTLAND, ME — A winter storm watch is in effect for much of southern Maine as forecasters track a system that could drop more than six inches of new snow in some parts of the state.

The watch is in effect late Thursday night through late Friday night, according to the National Weather Service office in Portland.

The storm follows a spring-like Wednesday when a strong westerly breeze combined with sunshine pushed temperatures into the mid to upper 50s. However, as a cold front moves in, temperatures in some parts of the state could drop by more than 50 degrees in 12 hours, forecasters with News Center Maine reported.

Heavy snow is possible Thursday night into Friday, according to forecasts. Some heavy snow bands could also drop anywhere from 1 to 2 inches of fresh snow per hour during the Friday morning commute.

Forecasters said the storm could bring anywhere between 6 to 12 inches of new snow to the state.

According to News Center Maine, southern counties — especially York and Cumberland — are likely to see the highest snowfall totals. Central Maine and Downeast regions will likely end up with 3 to 6 inches, while the Katahdin region will only see about 1 to 3 inches.

As the storm system moves through the area, travel could be difficult due to low visibility and snow-covered roads. The hazardous conditions could affect the Friday morning and evening commutes.