People Told to 'Use Extreme Caution' Amid Hidden Threat at Maine Beaches
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
As people flock to area beaches to enjoy the warm weather in Maine, local officials are urging them to exercise "extreme caution" amid a hidden threat in the water that could result in drowning.
National Weather Service (NWS) warning coordination meteorologist Donny Dumont told Newsweek that Maine's coastal water can take the entire summer to get above 60 degrees.
"Anything below 60 degrees Fahrenheit we consider pretty hazardous water temperatures," he said.
Why It Matters
This set of coastal warnings reflects a recurring, life-threatening hazard that can be underestimated during warm, sunny days in Maine. The contrast between comfortable air and frigid water poses a unique danger, leaving residents and visitors vulnerable to hypothermia even during peak beach season.
Such risks are particularly acute for recreational paddlers, boaters, and families, as people may misjudge the risk due to the pleasant atmosphere above water.
The physiological impacts of cold water, such as muscle failure, loss of coordination, and rapid reduction in core body temperature, can result in drowning.
Kayaks are seen on a beach in Maine.
Kayaks are seen on a beach in Maine.
NorthHatley/Getty
What to Know
The beach hazard statements affected Maine's Knox, Waldo, Hancock and Washington counties. These regions span a swath of the state's eastern shorelines, which are popular with tourists, locals, and recreational boaters.
While air temperatures on Friday were forecasted in the 70s, water temperatures in the region remained in the dangerous mid-50s range. The NWS highlighted that this disparity can mislead people into entering or engaging with water that feels deadly cold, even as outdoor conditions seem inviting.
Cold water can induce uncontrollable gasping, muscle failure, and impair the ability to self-rescue or swim, leading to drowning within a short timeframe. Even strong swimmers are vulnerable to the frigid conditions.
The advisories stressed dangers for anyone using boats or kayaks.
"Anyone on boats or paddlecraft should use extreme caution to avoid this threat," the NWS beach hazards statement said.
The warnings also urged for lifejacket use, awareness of wind and tide, and labeling vessels with owner information in case of an emergency.
What People Are Saying
NWS warning coordination meteorologist Donny Dumont told Newsweek: "We've had a lot of drownings in the last couple weeks. Cold water can be a major factor in your ability to save yourself."
NWS Gray, Maine, in a beach hazards statement: "The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. When the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could lose dexterity within minutes and be unable to accomplish simple tasks."
What Happens Next?
The issued beach hazard statements were set to remain in effect through Friday evening. Future advisories will depend on water and air temperature trends, as well as anticipated public activity.
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