Caribou, Maine Forecast: Slick Roads After Overnight Snowfall, More Showers Ahead

Caribou, Maine, woke up under a light blanket of snow Thursday morning as early winter weather made travel challenging across parts of Aroostook County. While snowfall amounts remained modest, slick roads and freezing temperatures created hazardous driving conditions that are expected to continue through the end of the week.

Overnight Snow Creates Icy Conditions

A thin layer of snow overnight quickly turned roads and sidewalks slippery, especially in areas that were untreated or shaded.
Temperatures dropped below freezing, allowing moisture on the roads to harden into ice before dawn. Motorists reported slow-moving traffic and several minor slide-offs along rural highways and residential streets.

City crews were out early, spreading sand and salt to improve traction, but officials urged drivers to remain cautious. Even small accumulations, they said, can lead to dangerous driving conditions when the ground is cold.

More Showers Expected Through the Weekend

Forecasters say the region isn’t done with wintry weather yet. A weak system moving through northern Maine will bring a mix of light snow and scattered rain showers later today and into Friday.

Daytime temperatures will hover in the mid-30s to low 40s, but overnight lows are expected to dip well below freezing. That means any melting during the day could refreeze by night, creating another round of slick conditions on Friday morning.

Higher elevations around Aroostook County may see a bit more accumulation, though totals are expected to stay light — generally less than an inch.

Travel and Safety Tips for Residents

Local authorities are reminding residents to take precautions while on the roads:

• Drive slowly and allow for extra stopping distance.

• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on icy surfaces.

• Keep headlights on and windshield clear to improve visibility.

• Check your tires and wiper fluid before traveling.

• If possible, delay early morning commutes until road crews have treated main routes.

Pedestrians are also being advised to watch for black ice on sidewalks and driveways, especially in shaded areas where the sun doesn’t reach.

Community Response and Preparations

Public works departments across Caribou and nearby towns have been preparing for the first stretch of persistent winter weather.
Salt trucks, plows, and sanders have been deployed across major routes, and residents are being asked to move parked vehicles off streets to allow for clearing operations.

While the snowfall has been light, officials say it’s a good reminder that winter driving season has officially begun in northern Maine.

Outlook for the Coming Days

Conditions are expected to briefly improve late Saturday before another round of light snow showers moves in early next week.
Temperatures will remain below average for mid-November, with highs struggling to reach 40°F through the start of next week.

Drivers and residents should stay alert for weather updates and plan travel accordingly as the region settles into its winter rhythm.

This week’s light snow may be just the beginning of a longer pattern of cold, unsettled weather for northern Maine. Even minor snow events can quickly create slick roads and dangerous conditions, especially overnight.
Authorities are urging residents to stay prepared, drive cautiously, and take every precaution to stay safe as winter tightens its grip on Caribou.