Caribou, Maine – A prolonged stretch of soaking rain, locally heavy downpours and dangerous beach conditions is expected to impact Maine from Tuesday night through Wednesday night, with the greatest flooding concerns centered across Downeast communities. Coastal residents and visitors should also prepare for hazardous surf and a high risk of rip currents on Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, widespread rainfall totals of three-quarters of an inch to 1¼ inches are expected across much of northern and eastern Maine between Tuesday night and Wednesday night. The heaviest rainfall is forecast across Washington County and coastal Hancock County, where localized amounts could exceed those totals and produce minor urban flooding, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
Forecasters say thunderstorms are not expected to become severe Tuesday night, but some storms could become severe Wednesday afternoon as the atmosphere becomes more unstable. Heavy rainfall within stronger storms could further increase the risk of localized flooding and reduced visibility on area roadways.
Along the coast, marine conditions will become increasingly dangerous on Wednesday. Surf is expected to build to 5 to 10 feet, creating a moderate to high risk of dangerous rip currents and sneaker waves. Wave periods of 8 to 10 seconds could produce larger-than-expected waves capable of sweeping people off rocks and jetties. Officials urge beachgoers to stay out of the surf and use extreme caution near the shoreline.
Communities including Bar Harbor, Machias, Eastport, Ellsworth, Calais, Bangor and surrounding areas should prepare for periods of heavy rain, ponding on roads and changing weather conditions through Wednesday night. Motorists should slow down during heavy downpours and never drive through flooded roadways.
Additional flood or severe thunderstorm advisories may be issued as the system moves through the state. Residents should continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service, especially if traveling or spending time along Maine’s coastline.
