Maine – A fresh blanket of snow drifted over northern communities early Monday, creating slick roads, reduced visibility, and the first real travel challenge of the holiday week. Light flakes mixed with a stiff northwest wind, pushing snow across open farmland and lightly coating major routes as Thanksgiving preparations begin to accelerate.
NWS Caribou meteorologists noted in their latest Winter Weather Advisory update that 1–3 inches had already accumulated across much of the region, with isolated pockets approaching 4 inches. Their guidance, shared through the National Weather Service Caribou office, highlights gusts near 35 mph, occasional blowing snow, and brief drops in visibility along rural stretches.
Snowfall and Travel Conditions Across Northern Maine
Early-morning motorists reported wet, slushy surfaces on Route 1 and Route 11, where thin snow veils drifted across the pavement. Transportation crews cautioned that untreated surfaces may remain slick as temperatures hover near the lower 30s, allowing slush and compacted snow to hold through midday.
Local officials urged drivers to adjust speed, maintain safe following distance, and remain alert for areas of wind-driven snow.
Meteorologists Detail Monday’s Weather Pattern
Forecasters expect steady snowfall to ease by late morning, followed by lighter showers during the afternoon. Despite tapering precipitation, wind chills are projected to fall into the teens, especially in open northern areas where the northwest wind remains active.
In their morning discussion, NWS forecasters said: <blockquote> “Conditions will gradually improve through the afternoon, but slick surfaces and occasional visibility drops will linger in spots,” </blockquote>
This aligns with typical late-November patterns as colder air reinforces icy patches, particularly on untreated roads.
Improving Conditions for Early Thanksgiving Travelers
Tuesday offers some relief from the extended wintry start. Clouds remain, but brighter periods may develop, bringing temperatures up to the upper 30s. Lighter west winds should ease travel for residents heading toward Presque Isle, Houlton, and Madawaska.
Another quiet stretch arrives Tuesday night as temperatures fall into the mid-20s, setting the stage for a calmer travel day midweek.
Midweek Outlook: A Better Window for Long-Distance Drives
Wednesday brings partly sunny skies and highs in the mid-30s, giving drivers a more reliable window for longer trips toward Bangor, Augusta, or routes closer to the Canadian border. pavement should dry across most of Aroostook County, reducing the risk of hidden icy spots.
With Thanksgiving approaching, these midweek hours may offer the most favourable travel conditions before the next disturbance develops.
Another Weather System Expected Friday
Forecast models from the NWS indicate that a new system could bring rain and snow on Friday. While accumulations should remain modest, timing could influence outbound travel, especially along rural backroads that cool quickly and re-freeze at night.
Motorists planning end-of-week journeys should monitor updates and be prepared for shifting conditions as temperatures fluctuate.
Extended Forecast for Caribou and Surrounding Areas
A brief outline of the week ahead shows the changing holiday pattern:
- Monday: 31/28 – Morning snow tapering; 1–3 inches; windy and slick.
- Tuesday: 37/24 – Mostly cloudy and breezy.
- Wednesday: 36/18 – Partly sunny with improved travel.
- Thursday: 35/18 – Quiet and seasonably cool.
- Friday: 38/29 – Rain and snow likely; travel delays possible.
Conclusion
Northern Maine begins Thanksgiving week under a wintry curtain, with snow, gusty winds, and slick roads creating challenges for early travellers. While Monday brings the most disruption, quieter weather Tuesday and Wednesday offers a safer travel window before another system arrives Friday.
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