The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for Washington and Hancock Counties.

Winds are expected to pick up this afternoon, starting at around 4:00. The warning is in effect until early Thursday and includes winds 30 to 40 miles per hour, and gusts up to 60 mph. Affected cities will include Ellsworth, Bar Harbor, Blue Hill, Eastport, Machias, and Cherryfield. Officials say the highest risk will be along the immediate coastline

NWS officials warn the high winds could cause tree limbs to break, and that may result in scattered power outages. It could also make driving high profile vehicles challenging, so motorists are advised to use caution.

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