Don’t travel today ‘unless absolutely necessary’

With heavy snow falling over most of Maine, the state Department of Transportation is asking Mainers to stay off the roads today because of the potential for reduced visibility.

Data from the National Weather Service indicates Kittery saw the highest snowfall totals with 18 to 20 inches. Portland had more than a foot, and at least a foot of snow in Augusta.

In a Sunday statement, Acting Commissioner Dale Doughty said during heavy bursts of snow, the state may have to pull plow drivers off the roads to ensure safety. That could mean it takes longer than usual to clear the roads.

Maine DOT also asks drivers to say well back from plows and give crews plenty of room to do their work.

The warning comes as state offices, municipalities and some businesses announced closures ahead of the storm. School distericts in Brunswick, Portland, Standish and Kennebunk were all closed this morning.

Snow is piling up in Augusta. (Spectrum News/Susan Cover)

“Many people are used to cold winter weather, but these conditions still require caution,” Gov. Janet Mills said in a statement. “I encourage everyone to take the forecast seriously, take precautions, limit travel if possible, and give plenty of room to our snow fighters and first responders working to keep our roads and communities safe.”

Portland, Lewiston and Bangor city halls are closed, and parking bans are in place in most cities and towns.

With relatively low winds and temperatures cold enough to prevent freezing rain, power outages are expected to be low. As of 1:30 p.m., Central Maine Power was reporting fewer than 100 customers in the dark, and Versant Power was reporting no outages at all. 

Aubuchon Hardware in Augusta is stocked up on shovels, salt and sand ahead of the storm. (Spectrum News/Susan Cover)

The Maine Emergency Management Agency said residents should give plow crews the room they need to do their work.

And if you must go out, plan ahead.

“You’ll want to have your emergency car kit ready to go,” spokeswoman Vanessa Corson said Sunday. “You need to have things like a blanket, snacks, water, phone charger, flashlight with new batteries and make sure you tell somebody where you’re going and when you expect to arrive there.”

Corson also offered tips for snow shovelers, including pushing snow instead of lifting it, taking frequent breaks and limiting exposure to your nose, ears, hands and feet.

Also, avoid running snow blowers in enclosed spaces to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and never refuel the snow blower while it is running.

Traffic navigates snowy streets in North Berwick Monday morning. (Spectrum News/Sean Murphy)