by Portland, Maine –Maine residents should prepare for another bitterly cold and windy day on Friday, as brisk west winds and frigid air combine to create dangerous wind chill values across much of the state. Forecasters say conditions will feel especially harsh from midday through the afternoon, with cold weather lingering into the weekend before a modest warm-up next week.
Friday Brings Strong Winds and Frigid Wind Chills
Friday’s weather will be defined by gusty winds and cold temperatures, making it feel far colder than the thermometer suggests. Air temperatures across much of Maine will hover in the low to mid-20s, but persistent west winds gusting between 30 and 35 mph will drive wind chill values down significantly.
Meteorologists say wind chills will remain in the single digits and teens for much of the day, especially during the late morning and afternoon hours, when winds are expected to be strongest.
Residents heading outdoors are urged to bundle up, as prolonged exposure could lead to discomfort or even cold-related health risks. Those planning to be outside later in the evening should be particularly cautious, as temperatures will drop quickly after sunset while breezy conditions continue.
Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude Faces Chilly Evening
Festivities will go on despite the cold in Kennebunkport, where the popular Christmas Prelude celebration continues Friday evening. The annual tree lighting in Dock Square, scheduled for 5:30 p.m., will take place under cold and breezy conditions.
Forecasters say wind chills in the teens are expected during the event, with a noticeable breeze off the water. Attendees are encouraged to wear heavy coats, hats, gloves, and scarves, especially children and seniors who are more vulnerable to cold exposure.
While the cold may bite, organizers say the holiday spirit remains strong, and the event is expected to draw both locals and visitors.
Saturday: Milder Temperatures but More Clouds
By Saturday, conditions will begin to moderate slightly. Air temperatures are expected to climb into the 30s, offering some relief from Friday’s bitter cold. Winds will also ease, making it feel noticeably more comfortable outdoors.
However, the calmer conditions will come with an increase in cloud cover. Forecasters say skies will be mostly cloudy for much of the day, and there is a chance for light snow showers to move across parts of Maine around midday.
Any snow that does fall on Saturday is expected to be light and spotty, with little to no accumulation. Still, drivers should remain alert for brief reductions in visibility and slick spots, particularly on untreated roads.
Sunday Brings Coastal Snow Flurries
The unsettled weather pattern continues into Sunday, with more snow flurries and light snow possible, especially along the coastline. Meteorologists say a storm system passing to the south will influence Maine’s weather, though it is not expected to bring heavy precipitation.
Sunday temperatures will run near 30 degrees, keeping conditions cold enough for snow but mild enough to prevent significant buildup. Coastal communities may see occasional flurries, while inland areas experience mostly cloudy skies.
Cold Start to Next Week, Then a Gradual Warm-Up
Looking ahead, cold temperatures will linger into the start of next week, keeping Maine firmly in a winter pattern. However, forecasters are optimistic about a seasonable warm-up by mid to late next week, accompanied by increasing cloud cover.
While temperatures will remain chilly, long-range forecasts suggest Maine could be on the edge of above-normal temperatures as Christmas approaches, a welcome change for those hoping for less harsh conditions during the holiday travel period.
What to Expect and How to Prepare
With fluctuating conditions ahead, residents are advised to:
- Dress in layers to protect against wind chill
- Limit prolonged outdoor exposure during peak winds on Friday
- Monitor local forecasts for updates on snow flurries
- Use caution while driving during periods of light snow
Even small changes in temperature and wind can significantly impact how cold it feels, especially during Maine’s winter months.
What Do You Think?
Are you ready for Maine’s cold and windy stretch, or hoping for that Christmas warm-up to arrive sooner? How are you preparing for the chilly weekend ahead? Share your thoughts and local conditions in the comments below.
