More winter coverage

• Livermore Falls: Car knocks out utility pole, power
• Snowstorm causes slippery roads, several crashes
• Ice-fishing shack sinks into Wilton lake (And again after it’s rescued)
• Gov. Paul LePage reschedules town meeting in Windham

UPDATED 2:49 P.M.: AUGUSTA (AP) — Gov. Paul LePage has signed an emergency order that allows Maine fuel transport and delivery trucks to drive additional hours.

“The declaration allows heating fuel to be delivered to Maine families when they need it most,” LePage said in a news statement. “Keeping homes warm is critical to protect the public health and safety of Mainers.”

The proclamation waives U.S. Department of Transportation rules and extends the hours of service for heating fuel transport and delivery trucks within the State of Maine through Feb. 11.

UPDATED 10:44 A.M.: A winter storm sweeping through northern New England is delivering a one-two punch.

The National Weather Service says strong winds are causing blowing snow Wednesday morning after a snowfall of more than a foot in some areas.

Scores of business and government closings and delays were in effect across the region.

In Vermont, at least nine accidents were reported on Interstate 89, as well as on secondary roads in Chittenden and Lamoille counties. No injuries were reported.

Coastal New Hampshire and Maine saw up to several inches of snow, while inland regions saw up to a half a foot of snow. North Amity, Maine, reported the highest snowfall total in the state at 13.5 inches.

The storm follows a wind-whipped rainstorm Sunday that knocked out power to thousands of customers.