Maine starts the day locked in deep winter, with moonlit snowfields creaking under extreme cold and engines struggling to turn over. The air stings instantly. What’s arriving next will push conditions into dangerous territory across the North Woods.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, hazardous weather is not expected today or tonight, but confidence is high that a rare and intense cold outbreak arrives late Friday and lasts through early next week. Wind chills are expected to bottom out around 35 degrees below zero across much of northern Maine, levels typically seen only once every few years.
Today remains cold but manageable by comparison. Highs reach near 17 with some sunshine, though wind chills dip as low as 15 below. Snow showers become more likely tonight, mainly after evening, with lows near 9. Even light snow could create slick stretches on Route 1 and secondary roads.
Thursday brings periodic snow showers and increasing clouds. Highs climb into the upper 20s, but winds increase by afternoon. Snow remains light, though visibility may drop at times. Thursday night stays cold, with lows near 9 and lingering flurries.
Friday signals the shift. Snow showers taper, but temperatures stall near 17. Winds strengthen, pulling Arctic air south. By Friday night, lows plunge near 11 below, with biting wind chills making travel and outdoor work hazardous.
Saturday turns severe. Highs struggle near 1 below zero, and gusty winds drive wind chills even lower. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in minutes. Limit time outside and ensure pets and pipes are protected.
Sunday stays brutally cold, with highs near 2. Snow chances remain low, but cold dominates daily life.
Looking ahead, the 6–10 day outlook keeps northern Maine below normal, with cold lingering well into next week.
Five Day Weather Outlook – Caribou, Maine
Today: Partly sunny, high near 17
Thursday: Snow showers likely, high near 27
Friday: Slight snow chance, colder, high near 17
Saturday: Extreme cold, mostly sunny, high near -1
Sunday: Cold continues, high near 2
