Maine – A fierce Arctic surge has settled over northern Maine, pushing wind chills to life-threatening levels and prompting a Cold Weather Advisory across Aroostook County through 8 a.m. Friday. Residents from Caribou to Fort Kent woke to brutally cold air, frost-covered landscapes, and conditions capable of causing frostbite within minutes.
The National Weather Service in Caribou reports that early-morning wind chills dropped as low as −25°F, creating a hazardous start to the day for anyone venturing outside. Communities including Presque Isle, Madawaska, Woodland, and surrounding rural towns are being urged to limit outdoor exposure, dress in multiple insulated layers, and ensure pets and livestock have access to warm, protected shelter.
What the Advisory Means for Residents
This morning’s cold blast is driven by a dense Arctic air mass that continues to funnel through northern Maine. According to meteorologists, frostbite can develop on exposed skin in under 15 minutes when wind chills fall below −20°F. Local agencies are reminding residents to cover hands, ears, and faces and avoid unnecessary travel while the advisory is in effect.
Officials also emphasize the elevated risk for vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, young children, and households relying on outdoor heating setups. Checking on neighbors and ensuring heating equipment is functioning safely remain top recommendations during these extreme temperature swings.
Current Weather Setup Across Aroostook County
Although winds will ease slowly through midday, the overall pattern remains frozen in place. Daytime highs are expected to reach only the low to mid-teens, while overnight lows will again flirt with zero across the northern tier. The NWS highlights that this cold stretch will continue into the weekend as the Arctic dome refuses to lift.
The advisory follows several nights of below-normal temperatures, and forecasters note that snowpack in northern areas is helping reinforce the extreme cold by amplifying radiational cooling overnight.
Looking Ahead to the Weekend and Early Next Week
A subtle shift begins late Sunday as a weak disturbance approaches from the west. Forecasters give the system about a 20 percent chance of producing light snow showers, though no significant accumulation is expected at this time. Still, any snow combined with single-digit temperatures could create slick travel conditions for early holiday shoppers.
Another surge of frigid air is projected to drop in behind the system early next week. Below-zero lows are likely Monday night, and highs on both Monday and Tuesday may struggle to leave the low teens. These repeated cold pulses underline the volatile early-December pattern gripping northern New England.
Mid-December Pattern Signals Possible Snowy Stretch
Long-range models hint at an active period between December 11 and 17, with several Alberta clipper-style systems likely to sweep through the Great Lakes and into New England. These fast-moving storms could bring light, frequent snow events to northern Maine — the kind that do not produce heavy totals but steadily cover roads and make travel more difficult during the holiday season.
Meteorologists say this setup is typical for December, when strong jet-stream energy supports quick-hitting disturbances and persistent cold. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts throughout next week.
Five-Day Forecast for Caribou, ME
Friday: High 13°F / Low 1°F – Increasing clouds; dangerous morning wind chills
Saturday: High 23°F / Low 14°F – Mostly cloudy; calmer conditions
Sunday: High 15°F / Low 3°F – Partly sunny; snow chance late
Monday: High 11°F / Low −2°F – Mostly cloudy; frigid air returns
Tuesday: High 16°F / Low 10°F – Mostly sunny; Arctic chill lingers
Stay Safe During This Arctic Blast
Northern Maine is no stranger to bitter early-winter cold, but wind chills this low require heightened caution. Dress in insulated layers, warm your vehicle before traveling, and keep emergency kits stocked with blankets, gloves, and water. Local officials also encourage residents to bring pets inside, protect exposed pipes, and avoid extended time outdoors until conditions ease.
How low did temperatures drop in your area this morning? Share your experience in the comments below.
