News

Drought Intensifies in Maine, Now Covers Entire State

U.S. Drought Monitor


The latest map from the U.S. Drought Monitor, released Thursday, Oct. 9, shows all of Maine experiencing drought conditions.

Northern areas of the state were previously (Oct. 2) abnormally dry, but are now under moderate drought conditions.

Meanwhile, almost a third of Maine is now under extreme drought, with 70 percent now experiencing severe drought.

Conditions are now historical, as Maine is experiencing the 2nd highest drought intensity since 2002.

The more intense “extreme” drought conditions now cover the western Maine mountains and foothills to the Bangor area and Downeast, according to the National Weather Service in Gray.

Some relief could be in sight as there’s a chance of rain in the extended NWS forecast from Sunday night through next Thursday.

Forecasters from Accuweather say there will need to be storms with an inch and a half to two inches of rain to bring any relief from the current drought in Maine.

The entire state is experiencing moderate fire danger, according to the Maine Forest Service.

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