Flood Watch Issued for Parts of Maine and New Hampshire

A flood watch is in effect from 2 p.m. Friday through late tonight for parts of western and central Maine, as well as northern New Hampshire.

The National Weather Service says slow-moving thunderstorms could bring several rounds of heavy rain to the region, creating the potential for flash flooding in some areas.

In Maine, the watch includes Central Somerset, the Interior Cumberland Highlands, Northern and Southern Franklin, Northern and Southern Oxford, and Southern Somerset counties. In New Hampshire, the watch includes Northern and Southern Carroll counties, WMTW reported.

Forecasters say some storms could produce torrential downpours, with localized rainfall totals of more than 3 inches possible in just one to two hours. That much rain in a short period of time could lead to rapid rises on rivers, streams, and small waterways, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Officials say places like Carroll County may be especially vulnerable because recent rainfall has already left waterways running high. Additional heavy rain could cause flooding to develop quickly.

People living in or traveling through the affected areas are urged to keep an eye on the latest forecasts and be ready to act if flash flood warnings are issued.

WMTW went on to say that campers, hikers, and anyone spending time outdoors should avoid stream crossings and stay aware of nearby rivers and brooks. Water levels can rise rapidly during heavy rain, creating dangerous conditions with little warning.