Bangor, Maine, is in for a dramatic weather shift this weekend, starting with thunderstorms early Sunday morning and followed by a scorching heatwave as the workweek begins. According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, scattered storms will roll across the state late tonight into Sunday morning, bringing 0.25 to 0.8 inches of rain to much of northern and central Maine. Localized downpours could lead to ponding on roads, particularly in low-lying areas between Millinocket and Houlton.
What to Expect on Sunday
The rain from the thunderstorms will likely wake many Mainers early Sunday morning, bringing heavy rain and possibly gusty winds. While most of the rain will be brief, some localized downpours may cause water to pool on the roads, making travel hazardous, especially in areas prone to flooding. As the storms move out, cooler conditions will follow for the remainder of the day, but relief from the rain will be short-lived.
Heatwave to Begin Monday
Starting Monday, temperatures will quickly rise, and by Tuesday, Bangor and nearby areas like Lewiston and Dover-Foxcroft could experience “feels-like” temperatures reaching near 100°F. The heat index, a measure of how hot it feels when humidity is factored in, will push into the upper 80s and low 90s by Monday, with dangerously hot conditions expected to continue through Tuesday. The National Weather Service warns that this heat could be especially dangerous for vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, young children, and those without access to air conditioning.
Slightly Cooler Areas
While much of the state will experience oppressive heat, towns such as Presque Isle and Caribou will remain slightly cooler, with highs in the upper 80s by Tuesday afternoon. However, even these cooler locations will still face heat advisories, and residents are encouraged to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Safety Tips During the Heatwave
To protect yourself during the upcoming heatwave, it’s essential to stay hydrated, wear light and breathable clothing, and limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, usually between noon and 5 p.m. Residents should also check on elderly neighbors and those who may be more vulnerable to the heat. The National Weather Service advises anyone who feels dizzy, weak, or nauseous to seek shade or air-conditioned areas immediately.
Midweek Relief
Relief from the heat is expected to arrive midweek. A cold front will push across Maine late Tuesday, bringing cooler and drier air by Wednesday. This will offer much-needed respite from the extreme heat, with temperatures expected to drop to more comfortable levels by the middle of the week.
Thunderstorms and Heatwave to Impact Bangor, MaineBangor is set to experience a mix of heavy rain and thunderstorms on Sunday, followed by a dangerous heatwave starting Monday. Residents should take precautions to stay cool and hydrated as the heat intensifies, but relief is on the way as cooler weather moves in midweek.
