Maine experienced its first major snowfall of the season on Tuesday, resulting in slippery roads, school closures, and residents bustling about in search of parking spaces. Forecasts had anticipated snow accumulation between 3-6 inches across coastal regions, while inland areas were expected to receive over 8 inches by Tuesday evening, with snowfall rates reaching an inch per hour.
As the snow began to blanket the landscape, residents took to the outdoors to embrace the winter weather. Mike Boyson and Nancy Grant enjoyed a walk around Portland’s Back Cove, with Grant expressing her joy for the snow, saying, “I love, love, love the snow.” Nearby, Alexia Harger, who recently relocated from Florida, embarked on her first snow-filled walk through downtown with her dog, Kygo, expressing her delight at the experience.
The National Weather Service indicated that heavier snowfall was expected after dark. By 9 p.m., areas such as Fryeburg saw 6 inches, while Lewiston recorded 5.9 inches. The Portland International Jetport measured 2.1 inches of snow, with most southern Maine locations reporting accumulation between 2 and 5.5 inches.
In addition to the new Mainers enjoying their introduction to winter, as seen with recent immigrant Joli Gembize from Rwanda, who marveled at the beauty of the snowflakes, others were adapting in their own ways. Kaitlyn Curtis strolled through Lewiston with her emotional support dog, Moth, who donned pink booties to protect his paws from the cold.
Amidst the beauty, the storm triggered an array of closures, impacting schools, state and municipal offices, courthouses, and food pantries. Town governments faced decisions on whether to hold scheduled meetings, with some, like South Portland and Gorham, choosing to postpone, while others, including Hallowell and Lewiston, proceeded as planned.
The Harrison Food Bank adjusted its operations, opting to deliver food instead of serving in person, while other local food pantries announced limited hours or closures to ensure safety amid the storm.
Traffic on the Maine Turnpike saw a reduced speed limit of 45 mph, with the Turnpike Authority reporting dozens of accidents throughout the day. Maine State Police responded to approximately 50 crashes by early evening. Several cities, including Portland and Freeport, instituted overnight parking bans due to snowfall.
Air traffic at the Portland Jetport was impacted as well, with at least 22 flights delayed by late afternoon. However, despite concerns about power outages due to the storm, major utilities reported relatively few disruptions.
This first significant snowfall of the season not only brought challenges but also allowed residents to celebrate the beauty of winter in Maine, creating cherished memories among both long-time residents and newcomers alike.