Persistent wind to hamper power recovery efforts; snow continues

Wind stays up through Saturday

My main concern all along with this storm was the wind, and that assumption proved to be correct. As of 5 AM Friday, nearly a quarter million homes and businesses were dark in Maine. A combination of heavy wet snow and gusty winds associated with a rapidly intensifying storm proved to be a formidable one. What you see above are sustained winds from 6 AM Friday through Sunday morning. Wind gusts are likely to be in the 20-30 mph range, with higher gusts possible. This will cause blowing and drifting of snow in areas where the flakes did not stick. The storm becomes nearly stationary over New Brunswick before slowly moving eastward Friday night into Saturday. 

With the storm close by and gusty wind from the northwest, the air will feel more like February than April. Wind chill values in the teens and 20s are likely to be the rule over much of the region. Bundle up with winter gear as you head out. 

Heavy snow continues for northern and eastern areas of Maine through this morning before tapering to snow showers and squalls this afternoon. Western areas will see snow showers and squalls periodically through the day. Southern areas may see some rain showers, but with the cold air aloft, I can't rule out some snow shower activity there this afternoon. 

Model estimate snowfall amounts still to come from 2 AM Friday to midnight Saturday. Northern areas still see plenty of flakes to come. Travel will be hazardous from the accumulating snow and associated blowing and drifting that will occur. Snow squalls will be a concern for all but southern areas, and you may receive a bulletin from the National Weather Service. 

Looking ahead

As I mentioned yesterday, do the minimal amount of clean up with this possible. Temperatures will rise this weekend, and we have a statewide rain event on the way Monday, which could bring roughly half inch to an inch of rain with it. Wind will also be a concern for that storm as well, but heavy snow won't be apart of the equation. There will be a threat for power loss in that event as well, so be on notice for that. I see where Hannaford is closing its stores for Easter. If you need to top off your supplies, it will be best to do so on Saturday.

​► ► For the latest official forecasts, bulletins and advisories, please check in with the National Weather Service in Gray for western and southern areas, or Caribou for northern and eastern parts of Maine.

Thanks as always for your support!

​- Mike