Caribou, Maine – Bitter cold continues to grip Maine to start the week, setting the stage for hazardous travel Wednesday as snow and a wintry mix spread across the state, with icy conditions possible on untreated roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, Monday remains sharply cold with highs ranging from the mid single digits across northern Maine to the mid teens Downeast under mostly sunny skies. Clouds increase Tuesday as temperatures recover slightly, reaching around 20 degrees north and the upper 30s along the coast.
Snow is expected to overspread northern Maine early Wednesday morning, while Downeast areas transition to a mix of rain and snow. The rain-snow line is forecast to push north into central Maine by midday Wednesday. Forecasters warn that rain falling on cold ground could freeze, creating slick and hazardous conditions, especially on secondary roads, parking lots, and sidewalks.
A few inches of snow are likely across northern areas including Caribou, Fort Kent, and Presque Isle, with snow tapering off by Wednesday afternoon. Central Maine could see periods of mixed precipitation, while coastal communities may experience mostly rain with limited icing.
Drivers are urged to allow extra travel time, reduce speeds, and use caution on untreated surfaces. Conditions improve late Wednesday, with milder air expected toward the end of the week. Additional advisories may be issued as the system approaches.
