Maine begins the morning locked in extreme winter cold, with stinging air, frozen ground, and engines struggling to turn over in the dark. Northern communities wake to temperatures near 4 degrees, creating dangerous conditions before sunrise and setting the stage for a volatile December pattern.
According to the National Weather Service, today remains mostly sunny but brutally cold across Caribou and Aroostook County. Wind chills dip below zero at times. Roads remain dry for now, but the cold alone poses risks to exposed skin, pets, and anyone working outdoors. Limit time outside and dress in layers.
Conditions begin shifting Wednesday. Highs climb into the low 30s, and clouds increase. Light snow or a wintry mix becomes possible by midday, especially north of Presque Isle. Any snow that falls may briefly melt, then refreeze, creating slick patches by evening.
Thursday brings a temporary break. Sunshine returns, and highs approach the upper 30s. Winds increase during the afternoon, signaling the next system. By Thursday night, rain becomes possible as temperatures hover near freezing. Fog may reduce visibility on rural roads.
The most impactful weather arrives Friday. Rain is likely early, then colder air pushes back in. A rain-to-snow changeover is expected later in the day, with breezy to gusty winds. Meteorologists warn of strong wind gusts, especially across open areas and higher terrain. Tree damage and isolated power outages are possible.
Friday night turns sharply colder. Any remaining moisture may freeze quickly, creating widespread black ice concerns into Saturday morning.
Looking ahead to the weekend, winter tightens its grip again. Saturday stays blustery with snow chances and highs near 19. Sunday remains cold with scattered snow showers, reinforcing hazardous travel conditions.
5-Day Outlook for Caribou, ME
- Today: Mostly sunny, dangerously cold, high near 23
- Wednesday: Chance of snow or wintry mix, high near 33
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, breezy, high near 38
- Friday: Rain changing to snow, windy, high near 48 early
- Saturday: Blustery, snow chance, high near 19
