The warmest weather of the season so far is expected to push into Maine Tuesday, bringing with it extreme heat warnings, particularly in central and inland areas.
The heat index — or “feels-like” temperature — is forecast to reach more than 100 degrees in interior Maine Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service’s Caribou office. High temperatures in regions south of Katahdin will reach into the 90s, while temperatures to the north will reach the high 80s.
The all-time high temperature record in Bangor is 104 degrees, set on Aug. 19, 1935. Weather records in Bangor began in 1925. The all-time record high in Houlton is 99 degrees, which was established on Aug. 2, 1975.
An Extreme Heat Warning has been issued Tuesday for southern Penobscot, interior Hancock, and central Washington counties, as well as regions of southwestern Maine.
A Heat Advisory is in effect Tuesday for southern Piscataquis, central and northern Penobscot, southeastern Aroostook, northern and coastal Washington, and coastal Hancock counties.
High temperatures, combined with high humidity, can lead to dangerous conditions that can cause heat-related illnesses, including muscle cramps and nausea.
Officials recommend drinking plenty of fluids, staying out of the sun and in air-conditioned spaces, and rescheduling any outdoor activities. They also urge people not to leave pets or children in unattended vehicles, as car interiors can reach deadly temperatures in just a few minutes.
A weak cold front is hovering in the forecast, potentially bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms, and bringing some relief from the heat late this afternoon.
