Caribou, ME – A developing coastal system is expected to bring a mix of snow and rain to Aroostook County by Sunday, marking what could be the first widespread accumulating snowfall of the season for parts of northern Maine. Forecasters say conditions may shift quickly, and residents should prepare for slick roads, reduced visibility, and changing travel impacts as the storm moves in.
The Incoming Weather System
Meteorologists with the National Weather Service in Caribou report that scattered rain and snow showers will continue across northern Maine today, mainly north of Greenville and west of Caribou, with temperatures in the upper 30s to low 40s. Cloud cover will thicken through the day before giving way to a brief period of dry, calmer weather on Friday and Saturday.
That quiet stretch will be short-lived.
Forecasters are tracking a developing low-pressure system expected to ride up the East Coast late Saturday into Sunday. The exact path of the storm will determine how much of Aroostook County sees rain, snow, or a mix of both.
Forecast Details and Potential Impacts
Weather models currently show two primary scenarios.
If the low tracks farther north, warmer air could push inland, bringing more rain into towns like Presque Isle, Houlton, and parts of the central county.
However, if the system shifts south, colder air will dominate, allowing for heavier, more widespread snowfall across the county and the higher terrain north of Route 11.
Forecasters say computer models slightly favor the southern track, increasing the likelihood that northern Aroostook County will see accumulating snow by Sunday morning.
“We’re watching for a quick transition from rain to snow across northern zones,” NWS meteorologists said in discussion notes. “Slick travel and gusty winds are likely across the North Woods and Aroostook County on Sunday.”
Gusts may increase as the low passes the Gulf of Maine, adding to reduced visibility, slushy roads, and hazardous travel conditions, especially on rural routes and logging roads.
Community Preparedness and Travel Concerns
With Thanksgiving week approaching, the storm serves as a reminder that winter conditions are returning quickly. Local officials are urging residents to prepare now.
Northern areas, including Allagash, Fort Kent, Madawaska, and the North Woods region, may wake up to snow-covered roadways Sunday, depending on overnight temperatures. Even areas that stay mostly rain could experience brief bursts of wet snow, creating patches of slick pavement.
For those planning weekend travel, forecasters recommend:
- Checking road conditions frequently, especially early Sunday morning
- Allowing extra travel time on secondary and rural roads
- Keeping winter gear such as shovels and blankets in vehicles
- Monitoring updated weather alerts as storm positioning becomes clearer
While snowfall totals remain uncertain, confidence is rising that a measurable accumulation will occur somewhere across northern Maine before the storm exits Monday.
Background: Early Signs of Winter in Northern Maine
Northern Maine is no stranger to early-season storms. The region often sees its first accumulating snow before mid-November, especially in Aroostook County and the higher elevations. This system, although not expected to be a major winter storm, is significant because it may set the tone for colder and more active weather patterns heading toward late November.
Recent weather trends show early-season storms tracking farther south, increasing snow chances for northern areas even when the rest of the state sees rain. This weekend’s system appears to follow that pattern, keeping northern towns colder and more vulnerable to the first true winter impacts.
What Comes Next
The storm is expected to move out of the region by Monday, leaving behind colder air and clearing skies. Forecasters will continue to refine snowfall projections as new data arrives. Updated advisories or winter weather statements may be issued if confidence increases in heavier snow bands or strong wind gusts.
Residents across Aroostook County are encouraged to stay weather-aware as the weekend approaches.
What are your thoughts on the upcoming weather system? Share your experiences or local updates in the comments below.
