Portland, ME – Maine is under the gun for a potential burst of heavy snow from November 28–30 as Arctic air collides with Atlantic moisture in the wake of Thanksgiving. The setup could bring significant travel hazards across the state on Black Friday and into the weekend, especially in northern and interior zones.
According to the National Weather Service office in Gray, ME, a powerful cold front arriving late Thanksgiving Day will open the door for a deep winter air mass. As lake and ocean-effect moisture wraps in from the Gulf of Maine, bands of heavy snow may develop across higher elevations and northern Maine beginning Friday. The Climate Prediction Center highlights a moderate risk of heavy snow across parts of New England—including Maine—during this window, with the potential for 4–8 inches and localized totals higher in the north.
According to the Maine Department of Transportation, travelers on I-95 north of Bangor and U.S. 2 toward Farmington should anticipate snow-covered roads, blowing snow, and reduced visibility Friday into Saturday. Gusty northwest winds could cause drifting snow and subzero wind chills in open terrain by early Sunday.
Those planning Black Friday travel or shopping trips should allow extra time, dress for winter conditions, and keep emergency gear in vehicles. Residents should also protect pipes and pets as nighttime lows plunge into the teens and 20s statewide.
