Maine wakes to punishing cold this Monday, with wind whipping across open fields and stinging exposed skin in seconds. In northern towns, engines strain, doors creak, and breath freezes fast as winter asserts itself early and hard.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, temperatures hover near 14 degrees this morning with wind chills dropping below zero. Northwest winds gusting over 25 mph keep conditions dangerous for anyone outdoors for extended periods.
Daytime improvement remains limited. Highs struggle to reach the mid-teens today despite partial sunshine. Roads remain dry for now, but the extreme cold reduces tire traction and stiffens vehicle components. Drivers should allow extra warm-up time and keep emergency supplies on hand.
Attention shifts Tuesday night into Wednesday. Light snow becomes possible late Tuesday, with additional snow showers lingering into Wednesday. While accumulations look minor, even light snow can quickly glaze roads given the persistent cold.
Routes including U.S. 1, Route 161, and secondary roads across Aroostook County may turn slick quickly during snow bursts. Visibility can drop fast in open areas where wind lifts powdery snow back onto roadways.
Christmas Eve brings another round of snow shower chances, paired with highs only in the lower 20s. The cold ground ensures any snowfall sticks immediately, increasing travel risks for holiday drivers heading out early or after dark.
This is classic northern Maine winter weather. No blockbuster storm is needed to create hazards when cold, wind, and light snow align. Dress in layers, limit time outdoors, and slow down on snow-covered roads.
Traveling this week or already seeing blowing snow? Let us know what conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Caribou, Maine
- Monday: Partly sunny, very cold, high near 15
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 14
- Wednesday: Chance of snow showers, high near 18
- Christmas Day: Chance of snow showers, high near 23
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high near 18
