Caribou, Maine – Bitter Arctic air and gusty winds are expected to drive dangerous wind chills across northern Maine late tonight into Sunday morning.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in Caribou, a surge of Arctic air combined with strong northwesterly winds will result in frigid conditions across the region this weekend. The coldest wind chills are expected late tonight through early Sunday, when temperatures and wind speeds combine to create life-threatening cold exposure risks.
Wind chill values are forecast to drop well below zero, with some areas experiencing readings approaching or exceeding 20 degrees below zero. These conditions may be especially hazardous along exposed roadways such as U.S. Route 1, Route 11, and Route 161, where open terrain can intensify wind effects. Drivers may encounter rapidly worsening conditions during overnight and early morning travel.
The National Weather Service advises limiting time outdoors, wearing multiple layers of protective clothing, and ensuring skin is fully covered if exposure is unavoidable. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to frostbite in minutes.
While Monday will remain cold, forecasters say temperatures are expected to moderate beginning Tuesday. High temperatures Wednesday through Friday are forecast to climb closer to 30 degrees across much of the area, offering some relief from the extreme cold.
A weak weather system may move through the region mid-week, bringing the potential for light snow. While accumulations are not expected to be significant, even minor snowfall combined with lingering cold could impact road conditions during commuting hours.
The cold snap may pose additional challenges for early-morning workers, students, and commuters traveling along rural highways and secondary roads during the coldest periods.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official weather updates and take precautions to protect people, pets, and property during this period of extreme cold.
