CARIBOU, Maine – Strong northwesterly winds are sweeping across northern and eastern Maine Thursday, bringing gusts up to 35 mph inland and over 40 mph along the coast and higher elevations, as cooler air settles in behind a departing system.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, clouds will gradually clear to partial sunshine through the day, with afternoon highs ranging from near 40°F in the north to the mid-40s Downeast. Winds will remain brisk, prompting scattered reports of blowing leaves and minor travel difficulty on exposed roads such as U.S. Route 1 and I-95 near Houlton and Lincoln.
Forecasters say tonight will turn cold and moonlit, with lows dipping into the low 20s across the north and upper 20s near the coast. Friday brings increasing clouds as the next disturbance approaches. “Light snow may begin across the northern tier late Friday night, mixing with rain farther south,” the Caribou office reported, adding that a second round of rain and snow could arrive Sunday night.
Drivers are urged to use caution in gusty crosswinds, especially high-profile vehicles. Residents should also secure outdoor decorations and check that heating systems are ready as colder nights become more frequent.
