The Maine River Flow Advisory Commission hosted a conference call on Thursday to review current hydrologic conditions. This was a follow-up to last week’s conference call.
Some ice jamming is occurring on the St. John and Aroostook Rivers at the present time and is being closely monitored.
We’re monitoring flood potential very closely as the spring progresses,” the Governor Paul R. LePage said. “We’re encouraged that conditions look stable in the short term, but concerned especially about the potential for ice jam flooding, which can be extremely destructive. I encourage all Mainers, especially those who live and have businesses in flood-prone areas, to stay informed on the potential for flooding.”
Snow Survey
Snow is gone in southern Maine but continues to hold on in Washington and Hancock Counties, inland from the coast and in northern Maine. Densities are rising state-wide with the spring-like temperatures. Deepest snowpack with the highest water content values are found in the upper Androscoggin, Kennebec and Penobscot River drainage basins.
Snow surveys will be conducted weekly until all the snow is gone.
Maine Cooperative Snow Survey maps and data: http://www.maine.gov/rfac/rfac_snow.shtml
Stream Flow and Ice Conditions
Stream flows are above normal for this time of year. Rivers and streams continue to increase as the snow melts.
Ice jamming is a concern in the St. John and Aroostook Rivers. There is little to no potential of ice jams in other areas.
Weather Outlook
According to the National Weather Service forecast offices in Gray and Caribou, temperatures are expected in the normal to slightly below normal range next week. Some showers are expected this evening and tomorrow and then later in the weekend. A more significant storm is predicted early next week which could increase the chances of river flooding.
Flood Potential
Flood potential is above normal for the State for the next two weeks. Rain combined with spring like temperatures predicted for early next week will be monitored closely.
The River Flow Advisory Commission will convene again next week to assess conditions across the State. The National Weather Service Forecast offices in Gray and Caribou issue Flood Potential Statements every two weeks during the spring.
For more information:
National Weather Service flood-related statements: http://www.maine.gov/mema/weather/flood.htm All forecasts from NWS Gray http://www.weather.gov/gray All forecasts from NWS Caribou: http://www.weather.gov/caribou
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