Caribou, Maine — Dangerous, potentially life-threatening wind chills are expected across much of Maine late Friday night into the weekend, with frostbite possible on exposed skin in 10 minutes or less, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service in Caribou says the coldest conditions will impact Northern Maine, the Upper Penobscot Valley, and Northern Washington County late Friday night into early Saturday morning, with another round of dangerous wind chills expected Saturday night into early Sunday.
Forecast lows Friday night are expected to fall into the teens below zero across northern Maine, with single digits below zero elsewhere. Northwest winds of 10 to 20 mph will drive wind chills down to -25°F to -30°F across much of interior Downeast Maine and the Bangor region, with wind chills approaching -40°F possible in northern Somerset County.
While winds may ease slightly Saturday night, temperatures are expected to be colder, keeping wind chills at dangerous levels, especially across the North.
In addition to the cold, forecasters note a plowable snow event is likely Wednesday evening into Thursday morning, with 2 to 4 inches possible across Downeast Maine and the Bangor/Penobscot region, and 1 to 3 inches across much of central and eastern Maine.
Officials urge residents to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, bring pets indoors, and check on vulnerable individuals. Travel and outdoor activities may become hazardous during the coldest periods.
Outdoor workers, early-morning commuters, and students will face the highest risk during overnight and pre-dawn hours.
