Winter returns to parts of Maine Thursday, along with strong winds.

The National Weather Service is forecasting a messy Thursday, complete with rain, snow, and strong winds. Forecasters say much of the accumulating spring snow will fall north of Houlton, where totals are expected to exceeded two inches of new snowfall. The Bangor and Downeast areas are expected to see periods of mixed precipitation, changing over to rain before tapering off throughout the afternoon.

Winds are expected to strengthen throughout the afternoon into Friday. The Bangor area could see gusts 35-40 MPH at times, with stronger gusts along the coast. Forecasters warn, "The combination of heavy, wet snow and increasing winds may lead to isolated power outages and tree damage across northern areas. Patchy blowing snow is also possible over these areas, mainly tonight."

The weekend forecast features sunshine and mild temps Saturday, with rain returning Sunday.

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