Drought in Kennebec, Maine

January can be summarized by a frozen cap effect as well below normal temperatures and significant frost depths prevented any meaningful sub-surface water recharge. In addition, precipitation remained below normal for the entire region for the month. This led to a lower than normal snowpack for all areas except the immediate coastline in the month. Overall, conditions in January didn't improve the drought and drought conditions remained in a steady state by the end of the month.

At the start of 2026, drought conditions were widespread across the state. Drought conditions as Percent Area of the state: D3 - 1%, D2 - 54%, D1 - 55%. January brought little relief to Maine's drought conditions, as winter set in and frozen ground effectively halted any potential for significant groundwater recharge. January precipitation remained below to well below normal with most areas in the 50 to 75% of normal range. Snowfall remained below normal, especially for interior areas with snow water equivalent below normal for all areas except the immediate coast. Streamflow and ground water remained well below normal on all basins. Dry well reports in January began to slacken off compared to previous months.