MONADNOCK REGION, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A powerful winter storm swept through the Monadnock Region over the weekend, coating trees and power lines with ice, leading to widespread outages and hazardous road conditions. Town officials and utility crews have been working around the clock to restore power and clear debris as residents face ongoing challenges from the storm’s impact.

Eversource reported that over 9,000 customers statewide lost power at some point during the storm, with about 3,000 still in the dark as of Sunday afternoon. The hardest-hit areas in the region included Stoddard, Fitzwilliam, Alstead, Sullivan, Surry, and Troy-the National Weather Service showed ice accumulations in Gilsum and Surry as much as an inch. While power was restored in many places by Sunday evening, Stoddard still had 147 customers without electricity.

The storm made travel treacherous, particularly in higher elevations. In Marlow, fallen trees and downed wires forced temporary road closures, with Route 123 near Cross Street reduced to one lane. Drivers were also unable to access Marlow Hill Road via Route 10 for part of Sunday, though an alternative route via Gustin Pond Road was available.

Marlow town officials urged residents to stay indoors as strong winds and ice accumulation increased the risk of falling branches. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or accidents as of Sunday afternoon.

Relief is on the way as temperatures are expected to rise significantly on Monday, with highs reaching the 50s and 60s. Any lingering frozen precipitation in northern areas will transition to rain, with scattered morning showers giving way to the potential for heavier downpours and thunderstorms by the evening.

Precipitation is expected to taper off late Monday night or early Tuesday, leading into a stretch of cooler but dry weather with temperatures in the 40s midweek.

Authorities continue to urge caution as ice-laden trees and power lines remain a hazard. Drivers should be mindful of emergency vehicles and repair crews working to restore power. Residents are also reminded to stay clear of any downed wires and report them to 911 immediately.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated through local announcements and utility service updates.