Maine’s High Winds Cause Detours For Drivers, Especially Up North

Maine's high winds are causing headaches for drivers, especially in Northern Maine where a major thoroughfare is closed and impassable.

Cold Temperatures and High Winds are All Part of Winter in Maine

Sitting on the third floor of the radio station this morning, I can hear the wind howling around the corner of the building. With gusts reported to reach as much as 40 miles per hour today, the wind is making it feel much colder outside than the standing temperature. February in Maine, the phrase 'wind chill' is part of our vocabulary.

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Route 1A in Mars Hill is Closed Today Due to Drifting Snow

But the wind makes driving more challenging, as it blows snow across the roadway, making some impassable, like Route 1A in Mars Hill. Maine State Police report that Route 1A, from Mars Hill to points north, is closed to traffic today due to blowing and drifting snow that road crews can't keep up with. MSP shared this picture of Route 1A, to show how severe the issue is. Route 1A travels from Mars Hill to Fort Fairfield, into Limestone, and beyond.

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Maine State Police Advise Drivers Everywhere to Watch for Drifting Snow in the Road

Drivers are advised to be prepared for possible blowing and drifting snow across the roadway. This could happen anywhere, especially with open fields on either side of the road, so there's nothing to block the wind. Drivers should be prepared to slow down, go around the drifts if possible, and remember that this is all part of living in Maine. Here's hoping we see some warmer weather soon and a break in the high winds we've seen this winter.