Portland, Maine –Damaging winds, heavy rain, and large hail are possible across much of Maine and New Hampshire today, as a severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for 26 counties until 6 p.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes cities from Portland and Bangor in Maine to Concord and Manchester in New Hampshire. Strong thunderstorms are expected to develop and intensify by early afternoon, with the greatest risk coming between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern. Wind gusts over 60 mph and isolated hail are the main hazards, with localized power outages and tree damage likely.
In Maine, all of York, Cumberland, and Penobscot counties are under watch, along with coastal areas such as Hancock and Washington counties. In New Hampshire, storms could impact the Seacoast and the I-93 corridor, including Hillsborough, Rockingham, and Strafford counties.
Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways, and residents should secure outdoor items and charge devices ahead of possible outages. If you hear thunder, head indoors immediately.
Storm activity is expected to taper off this evening, but additional warnings may be issued throughout the day.
