Caribou, ME – A chilly Memorial Day in Maine could bring more than just cloudy skies — boaters and paddlers near Caribou face a cold water danger that could turn deadly in minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, water temperatures remain in the low 50s across area rivers and lakes, a serious risk for hypothermia. The Maine Warden Service warns that immersion in waters below 60°F can quickly reduce dexterity and trigger exhaustion. Anyone planning to kayak or fish on Monday should wear a life jacket and avoid solo outings.
While temperatures will climb to a mild 69°F on Monday, skies stay mostly cloudy with a 30% chance of afternoon showers. Patchy fog may settle in by Monday evening, especially along Route 1 and near major lakes like Chamberlain and Millinocket.
By Tuesday, sunshine returns with a high of 76°F and calm winds — a sharp shift into summerlike weather. Wednesday will be even warmer, reaching 77°F with plenty of sun, offering ideal conditions for outdoor plans. However, the warming trend won’t last long.
Rain chances creep back in on Thursday (30%) and increase significantly Friday and Saturday, with highs in the upper 60s and steady rain likely by the weekend.
Five-Day Weather Snapshot (Caribou, ME):
- Monday (Memorial Day): Cloudy, 69°F, chance of showers
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 76°F
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy, high 77°F
- Thursday: 30% chance of showers, high 55°F
- Friday: Rain likely, high 60°F
Prepare smart: Wear flotation gear on cold water, plan for fog Monday night, and enjoy the sun while it lasts.
