Winter storm warnings posted for interior areas of Maine

Spring snowstorms in Maine can be difficult to predict their outcome, and this one is no different. Bust potential is high with these types of systems given the time of year, especially when the cold is marginal, as it is in this case.  The ski hills should do well, which is good news for them.

Low level cold and velocity of precipitation
​to dictate outcome

To set the stage here, these next two forecast idea loops begin at 8 PM Thursday and run through 8 AM Saturday.

The key element in a snow event is cold air, and in this case, there is some of that. Temperatures here in Celsius at the 925mb / 2500-foot level shows the cold air flirting around the -2° to 0° mark across much of the state as the storm approaches and passes through the region. This is what will guarantee a heavy wet snow event for the higher elevations. South of the mountains is a bit of a question mark. Since the bulk of precipitation falls during the daytime, the sun angle plays a role in how much snow will accumulate at lower elevations. Temperatures are likely to be above freezing at the surface, so then the next factor to consider is velocity of accumulation. 

The loop above showing liquid equivalent precipitation shows a general steady, but not heavy amounts of liquid. There could be some spurts of heavier rain and snow but appear to be short lived. For a widespread April snow event to occur, two things are needed: deep cold and rapid intensification. In this case, the idea is for marginal cold and some intensification. This raises red flags south of the mountains for snow accumulation amounts.  

Important to note here that outside of the mountains, accumulations are likely to be on grass surfaces and the roads less traveled. Accumulations for northern and eastern areas are likely to be Friday night. The higher the elevation, the more snow. Shoveling and plowing is optional for most, as this will all melt and be gone by Monday away from the higher hills. 

A good soaker on the way for southwestern areas. Through April 14th, Portland is at a deficit of 4.20" of rainfall for the year. This should put a dent in that. 

While the wind won't be crazy, where the heavy wet snow sticks will raise the concern for power outages. A couple inches of slop and 20-30 mph gusts do have a way of bringing down tree limbs and taking power lines down. The breeze continues into Saturday until the storm moves away by Saturday evening. High temperatures for the day will be in the 40s, so what sticks will melt and fall off. 

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​► ► For the latest official forecasts, bulletins, and advisories, please check in with the National Weather Service in Gray for western and southern areas, or Caribou for northern and eastern parts of Maine

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​- Mike