Portland lies on the southeast coast of Maine about 106 miles northeast of Boston. The city surrounds a large harbor on the southern rim of Casco Bay. Downtown Portland rests on an elevated peninsula with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the White Mountains. Summers and falls are pleasant; winters are cold with frequent thaws. Winter begins late and extends into the normal springtime. The White Mountains to the northwest keep heavy snow from reaching the Portland area and also moderate the temperature. Normal monthly precipitation tends to be uniform throughout the year.
Area: 21.2 square miles (2000)
Elevation: 34 feet above sea level
Average Temperatures: January, 22.1° F; August, 66.6° F; annual average, 45.5° F
Average Annual Precipitation: 44.3 inches rain; 71.3 inches snow