Record Heat, Severe Storms Possible in Bangor Thursday

The National Weather Service says temperatures will climb into the 80s to around 90 in Bangor on Thursday, and the high temperatures could accompanied by thunderstorms.

As of Wednesday night, the Weather Service office in Caribou was predicting scattered showers in Bangor Thursday, with thunderstorms also possible after 5 p.m.

The forecast said, "Otherwise, sunny and hot, with a high near 89."

Forecasters said wind gusts in Bangor could reach 23 mph.

For Thursday night, the Weather Service predicted a chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight, then a slight chance of showers between midnight and 2 a.m.

Skies in Bangor were expected to be mostly cloudy, with a low around 61.

Potential for record heat Thursday

Temperatures around 90 degrees would put Bangor in position to potentially tie or surpass the record-high for the day (June 4), which is 91 degrees set in 1934.

The average high temperature for the day is 72 degrees.

Caribou weather office issues Hazardous Weather Outlook for Thursday

The weather statement said there could potentially be "gusty winds, small hail and heavy rainfall" Thursday.

"A cold front will cross the area Thursday afternoon into the evening with showers and thunderstorms, the weather statement said. "Greatest risk of storms will be between Noon and 8PM."

Air quality

According to WABI Chief Meteorologist Curt Olson, Canadian wildfire smoke that brought hazy skies to Maine and impacted air quality Wednesday "should thin out overnight and will not be as dense on Thursday."

Air quality is expected to remain in the moderate category for Bangor Thursday.

"On top of that, a southerly wind will lead to elevated ozone levels along the coast which will impact air quality there," Olson said.

Those with heart or lung disease or those with respiratory issues are urged to limit their time outdoors.

Olson said a cold front Thursday afternoon should help to cleanse the air.