Hearing that all of or parts of Maine are in drought conditions is not a new thing for most Mainers. But are we really all up-to-speed on what exactly the different levels of drought severity are.. or mean?

According to the Kennebec Journal, the entire state of Maine (that's a lot!) is currently experiencing some level of drought. However, the only region that has made it into 'severe' territory is Central Maine.

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When taking a look at the US Drought Monitor graphic, you can clearly see that the entire state of Maine is shaded, though some sections are in different colors. For north and down-east sections of the state are currently experiencing 'abnormally dry' conditions, while the rest of the state is in a moderate drought. That of course is with the D2 section of Central Maine being considered severe.

When it comes to different levels of drought classification, what do the different levels actually mean? We took a look at a grid like breakdown on the US drought map to find out.

Abnormally Dry conditions, like what north and down-east Maine is experiencing mean,

Going into drought:

  • short-term dryness slowing planting, growth of crops or pastures

Coming out of the drought conditions:

  • some lingering water deficits
  • pastures or crops not fully recovered

Severe Drought, like what Central Maine is experiencing, indicates that,

  • Crop or pasture losses likely
  • Water shortages common
  • Water restrictions imposed

The rest of Maine is shaded in the D1 category or, Moderate Drought, and according to the US Drought Monitor means that the following is likely;

  • Some damage to crops, pastures
  • Streams, reservoirs, or wells low, some water shortages developing or imminent
  • Voluntary water-use restrictions requested

Even if we had a solid day of pouring rain it still wouldn't do much for the current conditions. Sure, it might make your lawn a little greener, but it wouldn't do much to move the needle on the drought conditions. So do what you can to help conserve water and certainly try not to let your well run dry!

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