Gather the ice scrapers and buckets of sand.

Weather forecasters and others Wednesday were warning that rain followed by dropping temperatures across the region would likely create icy conditions.

The National Weather Service was calling for sleet and rain Wednesday night and for rain most of the day Thursday before temperatures begin to drop.

The weather service warned that ice accumulation could range from a light glaze in most locations up to 0.1 inch in some areas. The predicted result: ice-covered roads, sidewalks and parking lots just about everywhere.

The Maine Employers’ Mutual Insurance Company, a group of workers compensation specialists, went so far as to put out a news release warning of the imminent threat of slick conditions.

Company officials said in similar weather at the start of January, they saw a sharp rise in the number of slip-and-fall injuries because of ice.

“This is a MEMIC ice alert requesting all employers and property owners across Maine to heavily sand and salt all sidewalks, pathways, stairs and parking lots — locations most often cited in slip-and-fall injuries,” according to the news release, issued at about 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. “Everyone is urged to use extra caution while driving and walking and to wear appropriate footwear and traction enhancers.”

Before colder weather returns Friday, temperatures in the high 40s are forecast for Thursday. Also expected: winds gusting up to 30 mph and all-day rain with occasional downpours.

 

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