Strong Storms, Flooding Possible in Maine on Thursday

Maine could be in for a messy stretch of weather on Thursday, with strong to severe thunderstorms possible across parts of the state.

According to WGME, the biggest concerns will be heavy rain, flash flooding, damaging winds, and even the chance for an isolated tornado or two.

Flood watches are going into effect Thursday afternoon for some of the higher-risk areas, including northern New Hampshire and the mountains of western Maine. Much of the day is expected to start off cool and rainy, with temperatures hanging in the 50s and 60s before storms become more of a concern later in the day.

NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of the region under a Level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather. The greatest risk appears to be in New Hampshire and far western Maine, though any storm that does develop could bring damaging straight-line winds, heavy rain, and localized flooding.

Winds will also be a factor. On Thursday, gusts out of the southeast could reach 30 to 35 miles per hour. By Friday, winds shift out of the west and could still gust around 30 miles per hour.

The steadiest rain is expected through the morning and into the afternoon, and it could become heavy at times. Drivers should be prepared for delays, ponding on roads, and reduced visibility during heavier downpours, the news station reported.

Forecasters are watching the 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. window especially closely as a strong cold front moves through. That appears to be the most likely timeframe for stronger storms to develop.

The good news is that conditions should improve fairly quickly around or shortly after sunset. Friday brings sunshine back to Maine, though it will remain breezy, with highs in the upper 70s and low 80s.

WGME went on to explain that the weekend looks a little unsettled, with a few showers possible Saturday and Sunday, but there should still be some partly sunny stretches mixed in. More rain is expected to return Monday afternoon.