Rockland, Maine – Warm July air may draw Mainers to the coast today, but dangerously cold waters could turn summer outings into life-threatening emergencies from Knox to Washington counties.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Gray and Caribou, a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday for coastal Hancock, Washington, Waldo, and Knox counties. While air temperatures climb into the 70s and 80s, water in Penobscot Bay and Downeast remains in the low-to-mid 50s — cold enough to trigger hypothermia within minutes.
Boaters and paddlers are most at risk. Even brief immersion can cause a sudden loss of dexterity, making it difficult to swim or call for help. Authorities urge everyone on the water to wear life jackets, stay alert to wind and tide conditions, and label paddlecraft with contact information in case of emergency.
In Bar Harbor and along Acadia’s shoreline, rangers are warning visitors not to wade into surf or paddle without thermal protection. Rockland Harbor and Belfast marinas are also reminding boaters to complete voluntary vessel checks through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Hazards may subside this evening, but officials say more advisories could follow if cold water persists into Sunday.
