Portland, ME – The National Weather Service has issued multiple Gale Warnings along the Maine coast, where powerful northwest winds and high seas are expected to create hazardous marine conditions beginning Wednesday night and continuing through Thursday evening.
According to the NWS offices in Gray and Caribou, the strongest conditions will impact Casco Bay, Penobscot Bay, and Downeast waters from Schoodic Point to Eastport. Winds will reach 25 to 35 knots, with gusts up to 45 knots and seas ranging from 7 to 10 feet offshore.
The warnings are in effect from 10 p.m. Wednesday to noon Thursday for southern Maine waters, and from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday across Downeast coastal zones.
Forecasters warn that these gale-force winds could capsize or damage vessels and cause severe visibility reductions due to spray and wave action. Mariners are strongly urged to stay in port, secure loose equipment, and avoid nearshore travel until conditions improve.
Winds are expected to gradually subside late Thursday as high pressure builds over New England.
