Maine, New Hampshire Special Weather Statement | Effective 05/17/2026 00:20

* The warm air temperatures in the 70s and 80s, except mid to upper 60s in the western Maine mountains, may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only around 50 degrees across Sebago Lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, and in the region's smaller lakes and rivers. * The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. According to the US Coast Guard, when the water temperatures are at or below 50 degrees, the chance of immediate incapacitation due to cold shock is extremely high. Anyone on small boats, canoes, or kayaks should plan accordingly if recreating this weekend and use extreme caution to avoid this threat. Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life jacket! * Breezy west winds are also expected today with gusts of 25 to 35 mph. If boating on large bodies of water, these gusty winds can increase the likelihood of overturning your boat, canoe, or kayak due to increased wave heights. * Due to recent rainfall, area rivers continue to run fast with swift water currents. The swift water can easily overturn a kayak or canoe into the frigid river waters. Once in the cold water, the strong currents will make it difficult to reach safety.