Caribou, Maine – A flash freeze is expected tonight in Caribou as temperatures rapidly fall below freezing, creating dangerous road and sidewalk conditions by Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, rain falling this afternoon will refreeze quickly this evening as colder air moves in. Temperatures are expected to drop below 32 degrees by around 7 p.m., with untreated roads and walkways turning icy.
Forecasters warn that a fresh layer of snow overnight into early Friday may further conceal icy surfaces, increasing the risk of slips and vehicle accidents. Winds are also expected to increase Friday, which could cause blowing snow on open and rural roads, particularly across northern Aroostook County.
The most hazardous travel window is expected late tonight through the Friday morning commute, when black ice may be difficult to see. Even areas that appear merely wet could become slick within minutes as temperatures fall.
Additional light snow is possible Saturday, though significant impacts are not expected at this time. Looking ahead, there is also a low-confidence chance of a winter storm Sunday night into Monday, but forecast uncertainty remains high.
Residents are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and use caution on stairs, sidewalks, and parking lots. Motorists should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions overnight.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Friday as crews treat roadways.
