CARIBOU, Maine — A biting wind sweeps through the northern pines this morning, the temperature barely above freezing and the sky streaked with thin clouds that hint at change. Northern Maine is stepping into its first true taste of November, with gusty winds and an early shot at wintry weather before week’s end.
The National Weather Service in Caribou reports quiet conditions through the day, but a series of low-pressure waves will begin affecting the region Monday evening. Scattered showers will develop late Monday, growing steadier into early Tuesday as winds shift and strengthen from the west. Gusts may exceed 30 mph on Tuesday, especially across open areas of Aroostook County. Drivers along Route 1 and rural highways should watch for blowing leaves and reduced visibility at times.
By Wednesday, colder air slides in behind the departing system. Sunshine will make a brief return during the day, but clouds build again by nightfall. That’s when forecasters see the first chance of rain and snow mixing across northern towns — Caribou, Fort Kent, and Presque Isle among them. Accumulation looks minimal, yet slick roads and wet snow patches could appear early Thursday.
Highs will stay in the 40s through midweek before dipping into the 20s at night — a clear sign that winter’s doorstep is here. Looking ahead, models hint at another weak system late Friday into Saturday, potentially bringing another light rain-to-snow setup.
For now, residents should secure outdoor items, clear gutters, and prepare vehicles for colder commutes. Maine’s late-fall transition is underway, and with La Niña holding steady, the state’s early winter may bring a few surprises before Thanksgiving.
Five-Day Outlook for Caribou, ME:
Sun: 45/27 – Mostly cloudy; calm breeze.
Mon: 51/39 – Scattered showers late; breezy.
Tue: 46/32 – Windy; chance of showers.
Wed: 48/29 – Mostly sunny day; snow/rain chance at night.
Thu: 42/24 – Partly cloudy; brisk and cold.
