Caribou, ME – Northern Maine is bracing for strong winds and heavy rain beginning tonight as an active weather pattern takes hold across the region. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Caribou, a fast-moving cold front will bring a period of rain and gusty winds through Tuesday, followed by brief calm conditions midweek.
The Weather System Moving In
Forecasters say clouds will increase this afternoon ahead of the approaching front, with rain developing later in the evening.
Southerly winds will pick up through the day, gusting up to 25 mph, before turning northwest overnight as the front moves through.
By Tuesday afternoon, wind speeds are expected to intensify, with gusts reaching 45 mph, particularly in elevated and open areas. Communities such as Greenville, Millinocket, and Bangor are likely to experience the most significant gusts, potentially leading to isolated power outages and hazardous driving conditions.
“This is a fast-moving system, but it will pack a punch with strong gusts and a burst of rain,” forecasters at the NWS office in Caribou noted.
Midweek Forecast: Temporary Relief
Following the frontal passage, high pressure will build into the region by Wednesday, bringing dry and calmer weather for much of the day. However, this quiet stretch will be short-lived.
Another storm system is expected to arrive Wednesday night, bringing a mix of rain and snow depending on location.
The NWS said that snow showers are possible across far northern Maine, while areas south of Bangor are more likely to see rainfall. Overnight temperatures will dip into the low 30s, creating the potential for slick spots on untreated roads early Thursday morning.
Late-Week Outlook and Potential Changes
Forecasters expect a brief break in the weather Friday, with partly sunny skies and seasonable temperatures before yet another system approaches Friday evening.
At this point, confidence in precipitation type and intensity for the end of the week remains low.
Meteorologists note that even small shifts in temperature could determine whether northern areas see wet snow or cold rain.
“We’ll be watching temperature trends closely heading into the weekend,” the NWS said. “There is still uncertainty in how the next system evolves.”
Safety and Preparedness
Residents across northern and eastern Maine are encouraged to secure outdoor items, such as decorations, trash bins, and patio furniture, which could be blown around by strong gusts.
Drivers should use caution in open areas and on bridges, where crosswinds may be stronger, and be alert for fallen branches or debris on rural roads.
Utility crews are on standby as the first wave of strong winds moves through tonight. The heaviest rain and strongest gusts are expected between midnight and Tuesday evening, before conditions gradually improve by Wednesday.
Conclusion
While the upcoming weather system will be relatively short-lived, strong winds and heavy rain could cause brief disruptions across northern Maine. Another round of unsettled weather later in the week means residents should stay tuned to local forecasts for the latest updates.
What are your plans to prepare for the wind and rain this week? Share your thoughts and updates in the comments below.
