Portland, ME – Maine is set for a sharp transition into winter as an Arctic Blast pushes into New England from Monday, Dec. 1 through Friday, Dec. 5, signaling the start of a Cold December pattern. Temperatures will fall rapidly, and periodic snow showers are expected to accompany the early-week drop.
According to the National Weather Service, Monday brings a chance of rain and snow showers, with highs near 39°F before colder air moves in overnight. Monday night’s low is forecast around 17°F, ushering in noticeably frigid conditions for the beginning of December. Snow showers remain possible overnight with a 30% chance of precipitation.
The cold pattern continues into Tuesday, with a chance of snow and a high near 31°F. Forecasters say this early-week system marks the start of several days of below-normal temperatures for Portland and much of Maine, aligning with NOAA’s 6–10 Day Temperature Outlook that places the state squarely in the “below normal” category for Dec. 1–5.
While snowfall is expected to remain light, slick travel is possible during morning and evening periods as temperatures fluctuate around freezing. Meteorologists note that the arrival of this Arctic air mass sets the stage for a more winterlike stretch heading deeper into December.
Residents should monitor updates as colder air settles in and light snow chances continue through the first week of the month.
