Caribou, Maine – Gusty winds combined with bitter cold temperatures are impacting northern and coastal Maine on Sunday, with hazardous conditions expected to continue into Monday along travel corridors including U.S. Route 1 and Interstate 95.
According to the National Weather Service office in Caribou, temperatures early Sunday morning were below zero across much of the region, with wind chills falling into the negative teens due to persistent northwest winds. Although daytime temperatures are forecast to recover to around 20°F, increasing winds will keep apparent temperatures much colder.
Forecast wind gusts are expected to peak between 35 and 40 mph along the coast Sunday night, gradually weakening farther north by Monday. Inland areas including Caribou, Presque Isle, and Millinocket can expect gusts generally between 25 and 30 mph, while coastal communities such as Bar Harbor, Machias, and Eastport may experience stronger, more persistent winds.
The National Weather Service warns that these conditions may lead to patchy blowing and drifting snow, particularly near exposed roadways and coastal routes. Reduced visibility is possible at times, especially along U.S. Route 1 and elevated or open stretches of Interstate 95.
Despite the hazardous wind and cold, forecasters note that the broader weather pattern remains relatively quiet through much of the upcoming week, with temperatures returning closer to seasonal averages after winds diminish. The next opportunity for accumulating snow is expected later in the week or next weekend.
Officials urge residents and travelers to dress in layers, limit prolonged outdoor exposure, and secure loose objects that could be displaced by strong winds. Motorists should remain alert for sudden reductions in visibility and rapidly changing wind conditions, particularly during overnight and early morning travel.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that even without heavy snowfall, wind-driven cold can create dangerous conditions across northern and coastal Maine.
