Latest Forecasts
* [Latest Winter Storm statement from NWS Gray (southern and western Maine)](http://www.maine.gov/mema/weather/wswgyx) * [Latest Winter Storm statement from NWS Caribou (northern and eastern Maine)](http://www.maine.gov/mema/weather/wswcar)
The storm is predicted to bring snow, and potentially rain, sleet and freezing rain in some areas, before exiting the state on Friday. Conditions will be different, depending on where you are. Snow is expected to begin by 7:00 am in southwestern sections, spreading north and east throughout the day.
Extreme caution is advised on the roads, as slippery road conditions and low visibility are expected.
Stay informed
Check weather updates often, as changes in the track of the storm may mean changes in the forecast for your location. A track further east will bring more snowfall. A track further west would mean more mixed precipitation and less snowfall.
Listen to your radio, television, or NOAA Weather Radio, or visit one of the websites above for weather reports and emergency information as the storm progresses.
Stay Safe on the Road:
As in all winter storms, if you can stay off the roads, do so. If you do, check road conditions before you set out, and observe MaineDOT's safe driving tips.
* [511 Maine, DOT's Travel Information Service](http://www.511maine.gov) or dial 5-1-1 * [Sign up for road condition updates from MaineDOT](http://www.maine.gov/mdot/) * [MaineDOT's Winter Driving Tips](http://www.maine.gov/mdot/winterdriving/) * Safe Driving basics: * Drive only if necessary, * Reduce your speed, * Stay a safe distance behind other cars and * "Don't crowd the plow."
For much more information on emergency preparedness in winter and all seasons, visit [Maine Prepares](http://www.maineprepares.com).
After the storm
* As always, check on any neighbors and friends who might need help dealing with the storm. * To help stay warm, eat regularly and drink ample fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol. * If you lose power, and use a generator, **use it ONLY outdoors, never in a basement or attached garage. Carbon monoxide kills**. * Maintain ventilation when using kerosene heaters to avoid build-up of toxic fumes. Refuel kerosene heaters outside and keep them at least three feet from flammable objects. * Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack-a major cause of death in the winter. Before you go out to shovel snow, do some stretches to limber up. * Clear snow from your roof while it is still loose. * Clear snow away from all chimneys and vents to prevent carbon monoxide buildup inside your house. * Clear snow away from outside fuel storage tanks, and the filler pipes for your oil tank * Offer to help neighbors and friends who may need help shoveling out
On the Bright Side ...
The National Weather Service tells us we are closer to the spring equinox than the winter solstice. The days are getting longer and the sun's warming effects are getting stronger.
In the words of the poet Shelley "If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?"