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Drought in Maine

Dry periods are becoming more frequent in Maine, with some parts of the state experiencing unusually dry or drought conditions almost annually. To help Public Water Systems maintain service and quality, the Maine CDC Drinking Water Program (DWP) continues to provide updates and resources on the drought situation.

Alerts & Updates

Drought / Precipitation Maps of Maine and New England

Updated weekly.

Current Drought Conditions in Maine

Map of Maine showing regional drought conditions. With the exception of the western mountains, most of Maine remains very dry, with the coast from Casco Bay to Penobscot Bay in severe drought.

Source: NOAA/NWS/NCEP/CPC. U.S. Drought Monitor

Map of New England and New York showing regional rainfall departures from normal. Much of Maine is experiencing rainfall deficits, contributing to the continuing dry conditions.
Key to new England/New York precipitation map.

Source: US Department of Commerce, NOAA/National Weather Service - Northeast River Forecast Center   
NERFC Precipitation Totals and Departures from Normal

Dry Wells

The Maine Drinking Water Program does not recommend adding water to a dry drinking water well.  This is often ineffective, can introduce contaminants, and can cause damage to the well and/or well pump. Instead, bottled water should be considered for temporary emergency water supply. For more information on bulk water, please see our resource page on Bulk Water Haulers. Also, please consider reporting your dry well to the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).

Additional Resources