Maine braces for major winter storm as up to two feet of snow targets coast
Heavy snowfall forecast from Sunday afternoon through Monday night
Maine faced a significant winter storm beginning Sunday, January 25, 2026, with snow expected to intensify during the evening and continue through Monday night. Forecasts called for widespread heavy accumulation, with the highest totals expected in southern and coastal areas.
Snow was expected to begin lightly around mid-afternoon Sunday and then increase Sunday evening. The period of greatest intensity was forecast from about 7 p.m. Sunday into early Monday morning, when snowfall rates of roughly 2 inches per hour were possible in parts of the state, particularly closer to the coast. Temperatures near or just above zero were expected to produce a drier, “fluffier” snow that would adhere quickly to roads and sidewalks as it fell.
Projected totals and main hazards
Across southern Maine and the coast, projected storm totals were commonly in the 18- to 24-inch range, with interior areas forecast to receive roughly 12 to 18 inches. In parts of south-central, southwest, and western Maine, winter storm warnings described expected totals of 8 to 16 inches, with additional snow continuing into Monday before tapering late.
Even where ice was not expected to be a primary concern, the storm’s impacts were projected to be significant because of heavy rates, persistent snowfall, and blowing snow. Winds forecast around 25 to 30 mph were expected to reduce visibility and contribute to drifting, complicating travel and snow removal operations.
Highest impact window: Sunday evening through early Monday morning
Key travel risks: rapid accumulation, low visibility, drifting, and snow-covered roads
Commute concerns: hazardous conditions expected to affect both Monday morning and evening travel
Government and local response: closures, parking restrictions, and services
State officials ordered all State of Maine offices closed on Monday, January 26, 2026, citing the expected severity of the storm and hazardous travel conditions. Emergency management officials coordinated with transportation agencies, utilities, and local partners as conditions developed.
In Portland, the city announced a citywide parking ban for both Sunday night and Monday night to support snow-clearing operations. City Hall and administrative buildings were set to close Monday, and municipal services were adjusted, including postponement of trash and recycling collection. The city also planned expanded winter shelter operations for multiple nights during the storm period.
Motorists were urged to avoid unnecessary travel and, if travel was unavoidable, to carry emergency supplies due to the risk of rapidly deteriorating road conditions.
What residents were asked to do
Officials repeatedly emphasized preparation ahead of the storm’s peak, including limiting travel, complying with parking restrictions to support plowing, and using extra caution outdoors amid extreme cold and ongoing snowfall.