SCARBOROUGH, Maine (AP) — A messy winter storm brought hazardous snow, ice, and freezing rain to New England on Wednesday, compelling many school districts to close or delay their openings as road conditions became perilous.
The combination of rain, snow, and slush has covered the area, making it unsafe for buses and creating several thousand power outages, primarily in Maine and with hundreds reported in Massachusetts.
Jerry Combs, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, explained that advisories are generally issued only for significant snowfall but that the current mix of freezing rain and snow warranted caution. “With icy conditions forecast during both the morning and afternoon bus routes, ensuring the safety of our students and staff is our highest priority,” stated the administration of Maine Regional School Unit 21, based in Kennebunk.
All six New England states remain under National Weather Service winter weather advisories, with expectations of more winter storms that could bring further rainfall followed by colder temperatures, creating a dangerous mix for travelers.
Many highways in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts were reported to have experienced several accidents due to icy conditions, although there were no reports of serious injuries by late Wednesday morning. Additional wait times at five New England airports, including Logan International Airport in Boston, were caused by de-icing efforts on aircraft.
As local authorities continue to respond to the impacts of the storm, residents are urged to exercise caution and monitor weather forecasts for updates on potentially life-threatening conditions.
