Record highs possible for northern areas June 1st is the start of meteorological summer, and it will feel that way across interior Maine. While it will be hot, the humidity appears to be nominal. Where the dew points rise into the 60s appear primarily along the coastal plain, thanks to a southwest wind direction that brings in moisture off the ocean. For those fortunate to have the day off, the tides are running perfect for plenty of room at the seaside beaches in the afternoon to escape the heat. A new record high was established in Caribou on Wednesday. There is a good chance new record highs could be established or tied in several of the long-term observation sites. With overnight lows being warm at the high end, some new records for minimum maximums are possible as well. With the warmth comes the threat of isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon into the overnight...  Thursday 3 PM to Friday 6 AM - Any showers or storms that pop are expected to be widely scattered in nature with the better chance over the north and east. The severe risk is minimal given the lack of wind shear. The atmosphere is also lacking moisture with the lower dew point values, which minimizes the downpour and flash flooding threat. Some areas could hear some overnight rumbles of thunder as the backdoor cold front approaches on Friday. More showers and storms on the way Friday Friday 6 AM to Saturday 2 AM - Early morning showers and rumbles taper off and the sky begins to clear out over the southern two-thirds of the region. Heat will build up again with dew points rising up into the 60s over the south and west. With the front approaching, showers and storms are expected to be more widespread. The dynamics are favored for isolated severe storms, which may contain damaging wind, hail, and localized flash flooding from downpours. Guidance has been hinting at a slowdown of the frontal boundary as it heads towards the Gulf of Maine later in the day on Friday. That sets up potential for heavy rain showers to persist over southwestern areas Travel Friday evening could be a bit rough with the rain reducing visibility and the outside threat for strong to severe storms.  As the front descends into the region, temperatures are expected to crash. Expect a prolonged period of well below normal temperatures to begin starting on Saturday. Blocking pattern to keep the region cool |
Mike Haggett
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