Damaging Winds Expected Wednesday For Much Of Maine
Forecasters are calling for strong winds and more rain Wednesday.
The National Weather Service is forecasting strong winds, and more rain Wednesday. The strongest winds will develop along the Downeast coast, where a high wind warning is in effect. Coastal areas may see gusts to 60 MPH at times. The Bangor area and points north are under a Wind Advisory, as winds are expected to gust 45-50 MPH.
In addition to the winds a steady rain is expected. Much of Maine is expected to see 1/2 an inch of rain or more. Both the rain and wind is expected to diminish by late Wednesday afternoon into the evening.
Forecasters warn of the potential for downed tree limbs and power outages. As of 9 A.M., Versant Power is reporting an estimated 1,765 customers without power. For live outage updates, visit Versant Power's live outage map.
The rain is much needed for Maine and much of New England overall. According to the U.S. Drought Portal, the entire state is experiencing varying drought conditions. Much of Maine is experiencing "Severe" drought conditions.
Two portions of the state are currently listed under "Extreme Drought." Those areas include a section of Aroostook County, extending to far north-eastern Penobscot County. Another area of "Extreme Drought" covers the southern tip of Maine, extending north to the Portland area.
It's likely that drought conditions will improve with the recent rainfall. The U.S. Drought Portal updates each Tuesday, and released on Thursday. The current map of Maine's drought conditions was updated on September 22.