Maine – Bright breaks of sunshine won’t last long across northern Maine today. Building clouds will give way to scattered showers and developing thunderstorms, creating changing travel conditions before a warmer and more unsettled Tuesday arrives.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, scattered showers are expected this afternoon with thunderstorms becoming possible after 5 p.m. High temperatures will reach around 80 degrees, while southwest winds increase to 7 to 13 mph with gusts as high as 23 mph. Rain chances stand at 40% today before increasing significantly on Tuesday.
Motorists along U.S. Route 1, Route 89 and Route 161 should be prepared for brief periods of heavy rain, reduced visibility and slick pavement if thunderstorms move across northern Aroostook County. While widespread flooding is not expected, isolated downpours could create ponding on roads and slow afternoon travel.
Tuesday brings the most active weather of the week. Rain chances increase to 60%, with showers becoming more widespread and thunderstorms developing during the afternoon. Temperatures climb to 86 degrees, and heat index values could approach 90 degrees before cooler air gradually returns later in the week. A few stronger storms may produce gusty winds, frequent lightning and brief heavy rainfall. Tornado potential remains very low, but residents should continue monitoring changing weather conditions.
By Wednesday, sunshine returns for much of the day, although an isolated afternoon thunderstorm remains possible. Temperatures settle back near 80 degrees, followed by cooler nights in the upper 50s.
If you have outdoor plans, keep an eye on the sky and check for updated weather information before heading out. A few minutes of preparation can help you avoid the worst of the afternoon storms.
Five-Day Forecast for Caribou, Maine
- Today: Partly sunny, then scattered showers with afternoon thunderstorms possible. High 80°F. 40% chance of rain.
- Tonight: Scattered showers and thunderstorms early. Low 62°F. 30% chance of rain.
- Tuesday: Showers likely with thunderstorms developing. High 86°F. 60% chance of rain.
- Wednesday: Sunny with a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 80°F. 20% chance of rain.
- Thursday: Sunny with a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 75°F. 20% chance of rain.
