Caribou, Maine – Snowfall across northern Maine is expected to taper off late Christmas morning, followed by strong northwest winds, blowing snow, and dangerously cold wind chills tonight into Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, 2 to 3 inches of snow is expected across much of the region before snowfall diminishes later this morning. Snow totals of 3 to 4 inches are indicated in parts of Aroostook County, including areas near Caribou, Presque Isle, and Houlton, with lighter totals farther south.
Forecasters say gusty northwesterly winds developing late today and continuing through tonight will lead to blowing and drifting snow, especially in open areas, resulting in poor visibility at times.
As colder air moves in, wind chills tonight into Friday morning are expected to fall into the teens and 20s below zero across northern Maine, with some locations even colder. Wind chill values near minus 30 degrees are shown across higher terrain, including areas near Mount Katahdin.
High temperatures today are expected to range from the low 20s north to near 30 along the coast. Friday will remain cold, with highs from near 10 degrees north to the upper teens along the coast.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service notes that a new storm system is expected Monday, bringing snow inland with rain possible Downeast and in the lower Penobscot Valley.
Residents are urged to use caution when traveling, prepare for reduced visibility in blowing snow, and limit outdoor exposure during periods of extreme cold.
