Residents across Maine and New Hampshire are bracing for a challenging stretch of winter weather, as forecasters have issued a Winter Weather Advisory and warned of a persistent active pattern bringing snow, sleet, and icy conditions through the week. The advisory, in effect until 7 p.m. on Sunday, January 12, 2026, covers portions of south central, southwest, and western Maine, as well as northern New Hampshire, and signals the arrival of a wintry mix that’s expected to make travel tricky and test the patience of even the most seasoned winter drivers.
According to local meteorologists, the region will see mixed precipitation, including snowfall of up to three inches, sleet accumulations reaching one tenth of an inch, and the ever-dreaded glaze of ice. While these numbers might not sound catastrophic, the real hazard lies in the stubbornly cold air: temperatures are forecast to remain below freezing throughout the event, setting the stage for slick roads and hazardous driving conditions. As a result, authorities are urging residents to avoid travel if possible and, for those who must venture out, to slow down and exercise extra caution.
“Even light amounts of snow and ice may accumulate on roadways and create dangerous driving conditions,” local advisories warned. The message is clear: don’t underestimate the risks posed by even a small accumulation, especially when ice is in the mix. With the mercury refusing to rise above freezing, that thin sheen of ice can quickly turn an ordinary commute into a white-knuckle ordeal.
But what exactly does a Winter Weather Advisory mean for Mainers and Granite Staters? According to the National Weather Service, an advisory is issued when winter weather is expected to cause inconvenience and potentially hazardous conditions, but not to the extent of a full-fledged warning. In other words, while snow, sleet, or ice amounts are generally light to moderate, travel may become slippery and difficult at times. Widespread or life-threatening impacts are not expected—provided people use common sense and caution.
That’s a key distinction from a winter storm warning, which is reserved for situations where significant snow, sleet, or ice is imminent or already occurring, with high confidence that dangerous conditions will develop. Warnings usually mean heavy snow, major sleet accumulation, or substantial ice buildup that can severely impact travel, utilities, and daily life—think power outages, stranded vehicles, and closed schools. A winter storm watch, meanwhile, is more of a heads-up: it signals the potential for significant winter weather, but with uncertainties about timing, location, or intensity. Watches are typically issued 24 to 48 hours in advance, giving folks time to prepare for the possibility of a high-impact storm.
For now, the current advisory is a reminder to stay alert and plan ahead. The timing couldn’t be more inconvenient, coinciding with the end of the weekend and the start of the workweek. But it’s only the beginning of what looks to be an unsettled period for northern New England. According to WMUR’s Storm Watch 9 team, an active weather pattern will persist through the week, bringing multiple chances for rain and snow. Monday, January 12, is expected to kick off with a cold blast across New Hampshire, as winds drive in frigid air and gusts could exceed 40 mph in some locations.
Central and southern parts of the state will catch a break with mostly sunny skies, but northern areas won’t be so lucky, facing lingering clouds and the possibility of scattered mountain snow showers. By Monday afternoon, the winds should ease to a more manageable 20-25 mph, but don’t expect much relief from the cold: highs will only reach the 30s Fahrenheit, and the breezy conditions will make it feel like the 20s. So, if you’re heading out, bundle up and brace yourself for a biting wind chill.
Looking further ahead, Tuesday promises a bit more sunshine for central and southern New Hampshire, though clouds will stick around up north. But don’t get too comfortable—the next system is expected to arrive Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, bringing with it another round of light snow and rain. The Storm Watch 9 team is also keeping a close eye on a coastal system that could impact New Hampshire on Sunday, January 18. While details remain uncertain, the potential for another bout of wintry weather means residents should stay tuned for updates and be ready to adapt their plans as the situation evolves.
“Be weather-aware!” WMUR urges viewers, encouraging them to download the station’s app and enable push notifications for real-time weather alerts. With the region’s famously changeable weather, having up-to-the-minute information can make all the difference, whether you’re deciding when to hit the road or simply planning your week.
For those new to New England winters—or just in need of a refresher—the difference between advisories, watches, and warnings can be confusing. The key takeaway: advisories mean inconvenience and caution, watches signal the potential for something bigger, and warnings are the red flag that dangerous conditions are here or on the way. In all cases, a little preparation and a lot of patience go a long way.
It’s worth noting that while this week’s advisory doesn’t rise to the level of a major storm, even minor events can have outsized impacts. All it takes is a patch of black ice or an unexpected burst of sleet to cause accidents and headaches. Local officials and meteorologists alike are reminding everyone that preparation—whether it’s topping up your windshield washer fluid, checking your tire tread, or simply leaving extra time for your commute—can help keep you and your loved ones safe.
As the week unfolds, the eyes of New Englanders will remain fixed on the forecast, watching for the next twist in this winter’s story. With multiple systems lined up and temperatures stubbornly low, it’s shaping up to be a classic January stretch: unpredictable, occasionally treacherous, and always demanding respect for the power of the season. For now, the best advice is to stay informed, stay cautious, and—when in doubt—stay home.