A severe thunderstorm watch was issued on Thursday afternoon by the National Weather Service.
The watch affects all Maine counties except York and Cumberland at this time.
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Katahdin Iron Works and North Turner.
A watch means that the right conditions for a thunderstorm are occurring, but the storm is not guaranteed. A warning means that conditions have developed to produce the storm and it will likely affect the area soon.
The southern region can expect around a quarter inch of precipitation this afternoon, while amounts could be higher in central and eastern Maine during thunderstorms. The storm could bring small hail, gusty winds and heavy periods of rain.
The Bangor and Portland regions will see highs reach around 84 degrees, according to the NWS. The Caribou and Down East regions will see temperatures peak in the high 70s.
Looking ahead, the forecast is expected to clear out overnight, making way for clear skies on Friday throughout most of the state. A chance of showers will persist in Aroostook County throughout the day, although Saturday is expected to be sunny with highs reaching the low 70s.
Both the Bangor and Portland regions will see sunny skies and highs in the 80s on Friday, persisting into Saturday when highs will be in the mid 70s.
Although the forecast can change through the weekend, soggy skies are predicted for Monday, Memorial Day.
