The National Weather Service (NWS) in Gray, Maine, issued a Winter Storm Warning for New Hampshire from 1 a.m. Friday to 1 a.m. Saturday. New Hampshire Department of Safety Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the New Hampshire Department of Transportation remind residents and visitors to prepare now and stay informed.

NWS is predicting total snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches of snow across the entire state. The heaviest snowfall rates are expected between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. Friday.

Several New Hampshire communities and surrounding states are currently on school break, which means there are a lot of visitors in the Granite State.

“It’s important for visitors and residents to stay informed before and during this storm,” said New Hampshire Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Jennifer Harper. “Have a plan ahead of time to keep you and your family safe and make sure your vehicle’s winter emergency kit is stocked. Learn more about emergency preparedness at ReadyNH.gov.”

During Friday’s morning commute snowfall rates have the potential to be 1 to 2 inches per hour, and residents and visitors are urged to delay travel if possible.

“The timing of this storm means many people likely will be commuting for work and others could have plans for visiting the Granite State for recreation,” said NHDOT Commissioner Victoria Sheehan. “We ask that anyone who is able to defer travel until after the storm to please do so to allow our crews the time they need to remove snow from our roadways. If you must travel, check conditions before you leave, drive slow, leave ample space between your vehicle and others and don’t crowd the plow.”

Director Harper and Commissioner Sheehan provide these additional winter weather reminders:

·         Sign up for NH Alerts at ReadyNH.gov and monitor National Weather Service radio or broadcast weather reports to keep track of changing conditions.

·         Avoid travel if possible.

·         Slow down and move over for emergency vehicles.

·         Never crowd the plow.

·         Clear all snow and ice off your car, including your roof, around lights, and license plates before traveling.

·         Bridges, overpasses, and exposed road areas are the most prone to slippery conditions.

###

NOTE: According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Warning indicates that heavy snow of at least 6 inches in 12 hours, or at least 8 inches in 24 hours, is expected. It can also be issued if sleet accumulation will be at least half an inch.