A severe storm will bring strong winds, power outages and heavy rain to Maine

PORTLAND (WGME)— Slick travel continues throughout the day Tuesday in Maine. A severe storm is expected to arrive on Wednesday with strong winds, heavy rain and the risk of a significant power outage.

SMACKY TUESDAY: Temperatures will remain around 20°C on Tuesday, along with some areas of freezing drizzle throughout the day.

While conditions will improve through the afternoon, travel is expected to continue in some areas.

GRINCH STORM: A strong storm system will move into Maine on Wednesday and Wednesday night with heavy rain, melting snow and very strong to damaging winds.

The worst conditions are expected to occur in the late afternoon and evening on Wednesday. Temperatures will be very mild during this storm, reaching the 50s in most cases.

RAIN/FLOODING2 to 3 inches of rain is expected across the state and will be heavy Wednesday evening.

Flash flooding is possible from the rain and snowmelt, although low river levels, a faster storm, and overall cooler temperatures in the mountains this time will likely allow the mountains to avoid a storm as severe as the one in December 2023.

Rivers are likely to reach minor or even moderate flood stage, but major flooding is likely to be avoided.

WIND: The risk of wind and power outages appears to be the biggest threat with this system. Gusts of up to 55 mph are expected along the coast and even inland to places like Lewiston and Augusta.

This will be more than enough to prevent downed trees and power lines as well as widespread power outages.

The worst winds will likely be in midcoast Maine, where gusts could reach speeds of 65 miles per hour.

The worst winds generally appear to occur between 5 and 11 p.m. Prepare for power outages lasting several days.

The storm will subside quickly on Wednesday evening and the cool air will quickly return. Thursday will be windy with temperatures around 30°C or near 40°C and sunny skies returning.

A period of nice, calm weather is expected until the weekend, and it looks good that clean-up work can take place after the storm.