Portland, Maine – Strong thunderstorms are expected to sweep across much of Maine Saturday afternoon, bringing the risk of damaging winds, large hail and dangerous lightning to both inland and coastal communities.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 8 p.m. for 11 counties, including Cumberland, York, Androscoggin, Kennebec, Penobscot and Somerset. Forecasters warn that storms could intensify quickly, leading to localized power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
Heavy rain may cause ponding on roads in Portland, Lewiston, and Augusta, while rural areas such as Oxford and Franklin counties could see isolated flooding on smaller roadways. Strong wind gusts may bring down tree limbs, increasing the risk of outages for CMP customers.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor furniture, avoid unnecessary travel during peak storms and stay indoors if lightning is nearby. Emergency managers recommend charging devices and keeping flashlights ready in case of power loss.
Thunderstorm activity is expected to taper off later this evening, but additional weather advisories could be issued if storms redevelop overnight.
