Houlton, Maine – A fast-moving severe thunderstorm packing 60 mph winds is racing across northern and eastern Maine Thursday evening, threatening power lines, trees, and travel along I-95.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, a storm was spotted at 5:58 p.m. about 7 miles north of Shin Pond and tracking east at 40 mph. The Severe Thunderstorm Warning remains in effect for Aroostook and northern Penobscot counties until 7 p.m. EDT.
Communities including Houlton, Oakfield, Hodgdon, and Patten are in the storm’s path, along with parts of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. Interstate 95 from mile markers 279 to 304 could see sudden visibility drops and wind-blown debris. US Route 1 and State Route 11 near Knowles Corner are also under threat.
The primary danger is from high winds, which could bring down trees and power lines. Residents are urged to move indoors immediately and stay away from windows. Power outages are likely, and anyone in the warning area should charge mobile devices and avoid unnecessary travel.
The National Weather Service may issue additional warnings as the storm progresses east. Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or local media for the latest updates.
