AUGUSTA - January 25, 2026 - With periods of intense snowfall expected throughout today's storm, the Maine Department of Transportation is urging drivers to use extreme caution and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.

MaineDOTs snowfighters and associated staff are working around the clock to keep roads passable. However, during the heaviest bursts of snow, visibility may become so limited that plow operators must temporarily return to their maintenance sheds for safety. These pauses can reduce winter maintenance response levels until conditions improve.

"We want the public to know our crews are out there and working hard," said MaineDOT Acting Commissioner Dale Doughty. This storms forecast is unique, in that it is calling for intense snowfall rates in some areas. When visibility drops to unsafe levels, we need to bring operators back in to protect them and the traveling public. Other areas in the state not impacted by such intense snowfall will conduct snow removal operations as normal.

Drivers are reminded to stay well back from snowplows, give crews room to work, and use the roads only when necessary. MaineDOT will continue to share updates throughout the storm on its social media channels.