Caribou, Maine – Residents across northern and central Maine should be prepared for heavy rainfall, localized flash flooding and the potential for damaging wind gusts as a cold front pushes across the state through Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, a Flash Flood Watch remains in effect through 8 a.m. Monday for portions of northern and central Maine. The greatest flooding concern extends along and north of a Dover-Foxcroft to Danforth line, where repeated rounds of rain and thunderstorms may produce excessive rainfall overnight.
Forecasters expect widespread rainfall totals of 0.75 to 1.5 inches across the watch area, with isolated locations potentially receiving more than 2 inches. Communities including Caribou, Presque Isle, Houlton, Millinocket and Greenville could see the highest rainfall amounts through Monday morning.
Across Aroostook – Penobscot counties, strong to severe thunderstorms may also develop. The primary severe weather threat is damaging wind gusts capable of downing tree limbs and causing isolated power outages. Localized flooding of roads, small streams and poor-drainage areas is also possible where the heaviest rainfall occurs.
The Bangor region and Downeast Maine face a lower, but still notable, risk for strong thunderstorms on Monday as the cold front continues eastward. While the severe weather threat decreases farther south, periods of heavy rain could still create travel issues during the Monday morning commute.
Residents should avoid driving through flooded roadways and remain alert for rapidly changing weather conditions overnight. Those living near streams, low-lying areas or locations prone to flooding should closely monitor water levels and be prepared to move to higher ground if necessary.
The most significant flooding threat is expected through early Monday morning, though additional showers and thunderstorms may persist into Monday afternoon. Further flood warnings, severe thunderstorm warnings or special weather statements could be issued as conditions evolve across Maine.
