Portland, Maine – Strong south winds are expected to intensify across coastal and midcoast Maine late Friday morning, raising the risk for downed trees, power outages, and hazardous travel conditions through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, a High Wind Warning is in effect from late morning through Friday evening for coastal Cumberland, Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox, Waldo, and interior Waldo counties. Sustained winds of 25 to 35 mph are expected along the coast, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph. Inland areas will also see gusts approaching 60 mph as the strongest winds move through during the afternoon.
Communities including Portland, South Portland, Brunswick, Bath, Rockland, Camden, Belfast, Boothbay Harbor, Damariscotta, and Wiscasset are likely to experience the greatest impacts. Falling tree limbs and downed power lines may lead to scattered to significant power outages, especially in coastal and exposed locations. Travel will be difficult on bridges, open roadways, and along coastal routes, particularly for high profile vehicles.
Emergency officials urge residents to secure outdoor items, avoid parking near trees, and remain indoors during peak wind conditions. Drivers should be prepared for debris on roadways and sudden crosswinds.
The High Wind Warning remains in effect through Friday evening, with winds expected to gradually ease later tonight as the system moves east. Additional outages and travel disruptions may persist even after winds begin to diminish.
