MAINE, USA — A quick-moving fall front is bringing rain and strong winds to the state this morning.
Power outages have already been reported in southern Maine. As of 11:30 a.m., Central Maine Power reports 106,433 customers are without power; Versant says 12,683 customers in their coverage area are without power.
"The public is reminded to never touch a downed power line or a tree in contact with a downed line. Motorists are urged to slow down or move over and change lanes, when possible if approaching utility crews working on roadways.
Customers who use generators or alternate heating sources are reminded to ensure they are used in accordance with manufacturer's guidelines at all times," Versant Power.
The wind is coming out of the south - which is never a good direction for us, as it whips off the water and trees are more vulnerable.
Plus, leaves are on the trees - they can act like sails and make it easier for the wind to snap branches and limbs.
A strengthening "low-level jet" passing over the state is to blame. This zone 3,000 to 5,000 feet above the ground contains wind over 70 mph. When the rain comes down heavily, it can transport some of this wind to the surface, in the form of strong gusts.
After this jet moves east, the wind will abruptly subside. The strongest wind in southern Maine will be this morning. This afternoon, the wind will lighten and come in from the west.
In central and eastern Maine, the strongest wind will be late morning into the early afternoon.
Please take care on the roads and keep an eye out for downed trees and power lines.