Drought — Central Somerset, Maine

2021-07-01 to 2021-07-31 · Central Somerset, Maine

Event narrative

The July 1 issuance of the U.S. Drought Monitor had 100% of Maine a drought level of D0 or greater. A moderate drought level (D1) or higher was in place for 70% of Maine. Severe drought (D2) conditions were designated for 20% of Maine over portions of Oxford, Franklin, and Somerset counties. Dry wells were reported in northern counties, notably in Oxford and Franklin Counties. In Maine several towns instituted voluntary water restrictions, due primarily from below normal groundwater levels. Hydro operators monitored conditions and balanced needs of lake levels, hydroelectric power generation needs, and the discharges to maintain stream flow needs downstream.

Wider weather episode

The U.S. Drought Monitor classified Western Maine in drought. The drought developed as a result of below normal precipitation this spring followed by a warm and dry start to the summer season. The active weather pattern in July resulted in some areas receiving significant rainfall while others missed out. The foothills and mountains received the least amount of rainfall with these areas remaining in the severe drought introduced in late June. The coastal counties received three times their normal rainfall, effectively ending drought conditions for southern counties. The lakes and mountains regions saw less rainfall, averaging 75-125% of normal. Severe drought across watershed headwaters kept most area rivers and reservoirs below normal levels. Precipitation in July was 150 to 300% in southern Maine. Northern Maine saw rainfall amounts around 75% of normal.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 975639. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.