Maine is bracing for a rough Friday evening as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm alert for the state. Forecasters warn that the storms could bring hail the size of golf balls (up to 1.25 inches in diameter) and wind gusts reaching 60 mph — enough to knock down trees, damage roofs, and cause power outages.
The alert comes as a cold front pushes eastward across northern Maine, colliding with warm, humid air that has pushed temperatures into the upper 70s and low 80s. This clash is expected to fuel intense thunderstorms, particularly during the afternoon and early evening hours.
What’s Driving the Storm?
According to the NWS, the latest satellite imagery shows deepening convective updrafts within a broken line of storms across the northern part of the state. The agency noted that temperatures warming into the upper 70s and low 80s are contributing to surface-based convective available potential energy (SBCAPE) values around 1000 J/kg, with a likelihood of increasing to 1500 J/kg by peak heating.
“This should promote gradual intensification through the afternoon as the cold front pushes east,” the NWS said in a statement. “Additional convective showers are noted further south and southwest along and ahead of the front, and should similarly see gradual intensification through peak heating as they spread east.”
While the severe threat is expected to be transient and localized, forecasters say it could still produce marginally severe hail and damaging wind gusts, especially if a linear storm mode develops.
Safety Precautions You Need to Know
The NWS has shared a list of safety tips for residents to follow as the storms roll through:
- Stay Weather Ready: Keep listening to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio for updates on severe thunderstorm watches and warnings.
- At Home: If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, head to a secure location immediately. Damaging wind or large hail may be approaching. If time allows, bring pets inside.
- At Work or School: Stay away from windows and avoid large open rooms like cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
- Outdoors: Seek shelter in a sturdy building right away. Sheds and storage facilities are not safe, and taking cover under a tree is dangerous — the tree could fall on you or attract lightning.
- In a Vehicle: If you’re driving, pull over safely and stay inside the car until the storm passes.
These storms come just days after another severe weather outbreak threatened multiple states with high winds, and forecasters are keeping a close eye on the pattern. For those in Maine, the timing of the storms — hitting during the evening commute — could create hazardous driving conditions.
While this event is not expected to become a widespread severe weather outbreak, the NWS emphasizes that even isolated severe storms can cause significant damage. Residents are urged to take the warnings seriously and have a plan in place.
Stay safe this Friday night, Maine. Keep your devices charged, secure loose outdoor items, and monitor local forecasts throughout the afternoon.
