Caribou, Maine – Relentless spring rains have pushed soil moisture across much of Northern Maine into the 95th to 100th percentile, raising concerns about flooding and unstable ground conditions heading into late May.
According to the National Weather Service in Caribou, rainfall across Aroostook, Penobscot, and Washington counties has been 3 to 5 inches above normal this spring. Bangor leads with over 14 inches of precipitation since March 1 — nearly 5 inches above average. Caribou and Millinocket have each recorded more than 45 days of measurable precipitation since March, disrupting farming schedules and outdoor work.
The excessive rainfall has dramatically increased soil moisture, with 100cm depth measurements nearing full saturation in eastern and northern regions. This follows a flash drought in fall 2024, amplifying this year’s abrupt wet pattern. The North Woods, Eastern Aroostook, and inland Downeast areas are all seeing abnormally high moisture levels, especially between Millinocket and Katahdin.
Scattered showers will linger through Monday, with a brief dry spell expected Tuesday into Thursday. Another slow-moving storm system is likely by Friday, continuing the unsettled pattern.
Residents are urged to monitor drainage, delay fieldwork, and stay alert for localized flooding. More rain is expected next weekend.
