Maine – The cold feels sharp enough to sting. Snow squeaks under boots, exhaust hangs in the air, and exposed skin cools fast in the still darkness of early morning.
Across northern Maine, temperatures start the day near 5 degrees in Caribou, with calm winds offering only temporary relief. While hazardous weather is not expected today, conditions begin to shift as colder air and gusty winds arrive for the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, gusty winds from Friday through the weekend will drive frigid wind chills, especially across the Central Highlands, Down East, and far northern Maine. The cold intensifies Saturday night into Sunday, when wind chills dip well below zero.
Today remains mostly quiet but cold. Clouds linger, and highs struggle to reach the upper teens. Tonight clears out, allowing temperatures to plunge near 13 below zero, setting the stage for dangerous cold exposure.
Friday brings sunshine but little warmth. Highs top out near 14 degrees, and wind chills drop as low as 12 below zero. Roads stay dry, but cold pavement reduces traction, especially early.
Saturday introduces a new concern. Light snow showers may develop during the afternoon, followed by patchy blowing snow Saturday night as winds increase. Gusts near 30 mph could reduce visibility on open roads, especially in rural areas north of Route 1.
Sunday stays bitter. Highs barely reach 8 degrees, and wind chills remain harsh through the day. Limit time outdoors, cover exposed skin, and check heating systems now. Vehicles should be winter-ready, with full fuel tanks and emergency kits.
Looking ahead, early next week slowly moderates. Temperatures climb into the teens and 20s by Tuesday, then push toward the upper 20s midweek. NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook favors above-normal temperatures later next week, hinting at a gradual thaw after this deep freeze.
Cold like this leaves little room for error. How cold did it feel outside your door this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Caribou, ME
- Today: Mostly cloudy, very cold, high near 18
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 14
- Saturday: Chance of snow showers, high near 20
- Sunday: Cold and breezy, high near 8
- Monday: Mostly sunny, slowly moderating, high near 10
