Persons should consider delaying all travel. Motorists should use extreme caution if travel is absolutely necessary. Do not touch downed lines and report any power outages to your electric company. Travel is highly discouraged due to slick roadways and the possibility of downed trees and power lines.

* WHAT...Heavy snow and sleet. Additional snow accumulations between 5 and 11 inches for a storm total of 6 to 17 inches and sleet accumulations around one third of an inch. Winds gusting as high as 55 mph. * WHERE...Portions of south central and southwest Maine and central and southern New Hampshire. * WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT this evening. * IMPACTS...Moderate snow with periods of heavy snow with potential for a foot plus of accumulation will create hazardous travel conditions across the region. Strong, gusty winds are also expected with the snowstorm, which could cause damage to trees and power lines. Travel is not recommended as heavy snowfall and very low visibility will create extremely dangerous driving conditions. The hazardous conditions will impact the morning commute, with impacts potentially lingering into the evening commute. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...This is a long-duration, multi-faceted event. Intensity will continue increase this morning when some of the heaviest rates may fall accompanied by strong, gusty winds. Be prepared for a prolonged duration of impact. Very strong downslope winds west of the White Mountains are expected late tonight and Thursday morning.