Flash Flooding and Flooding in Maine, May 1 to 6, 2023

Name: Flash Flooding and Flooding in Maine, May 1 to 6, 2023
Start: 2023-05-01T01:00
End: 2023-05-06T00:00
Location: Maine

May 1 to 6, 2023 · NWS GYX · 65 events in 10 counties and zones

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 0
Injuries: 0
Property damage: $6.7 million
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 65

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS GYX wrote it up.

A broad area of low pressure across the Great Lakes region stalled out well to the west of the region early on Sunday, April 30th. A secondary area of low pressure developed and moved up the Eastern Seaboard and tracked across interior New England from Sunday, April 30th through Monday, May 1st. Widespread heavy rainfall occurred, and flooding was enhanced for this weather event due to the seasonal timing of the rains with spring soils being high in moisture and vegetation still being dormant. These two factors lead to increased run-off. Rain started across southern and coastal areas early on Sunday April 30th, with the heaviest rainfall Sunday night into early Monday morning. The rainfall on Sunday produced limited flooding, but set the stage for what was to come by swelling rivers and filling ditches ahead of the heavier rain. Heavy rain started around 3 AM and continued through 10 AM Monday with rainfall rates between 1 to 1.5 inches an hour. This caused flooding to rapidly develop, resulting in widespread flash flooding. The rainfall ended by midday on Monday May 1st. Runoff spilled into tributary rivers and major rivers that led to ongoing flooding for the next several days with most rivers cresting late on Monday May 1st or on May 2nd. Public infrastructure impacts were widespread for the event with over $4.2 million in damage. Oxford and Androscoggin Counties reported the most monetary damage to roads for the event.

Another aspect of the system was a period of strong gusty winds Sunday night that started along the coastline and extended inland causing localized power outages and tree damage. Wind gusts of 50 mph were recorded at the Portland Jetport, and gusts to near 50 mph were also recorded inland. Strongest wind gusts up to 65 mph were reported across the Mid-coast region. Power outages were reported due to a few downed trees and numerous snapped tree limbs.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Gray, ME wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Apr 30, 11:27 PM EST, 1 hour 33 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Apr 30, 11:27 PM EST, 1 hour 33 minutes before

Area Forecast Discussion...UPDATED
National Weather Service Gray ME
1227 AM EDT Mon May 1 2023

.SYNOPSIS...
A strong low pressure system will impact the area through
Monday morning bringing a soaking rain, probable flooding, and
strong gusty onshore winds. Unsettled conditions linger behind
this system through the middle of this week as an upper low
remains near the area.

&&

.NEAR TERM /UNTIL 6 AM THIS MORNING/...
Update...Steady rain continues...with most locations in western
ME looking at between a quarter and half inch of rain per hour
at current rates. Much of this is from warm/moist advection over
the top of the coastal front. That will continue...while the
most intense rainfall lifts north with the LLJ. Dual-pol radar
estimates from KBOX show embedded convection in this band
producing 2 to 3 inches per hour. Given that parts of western ME
have already received upwards of 3 inches...this type of
rainfall rate may start to push flooding into the flashier
variety. That will be the primary concern now that much of the
river flood warnings have been issued.

Previous discussion...Overall, forecast thinking has not
changed much since earlier today, with developing sfc low to our
S in response to dynamic but compact 500 MB wave swinging back
to the N around very large closed low over Michigan. This low
also forming on active triple point, and combined with already
decent moist mid level flow should create a strong low-mid level
jet transporting lots of moisture and warmer air aloft. I’d
call it atmospheric, but it is very transient, and will just be
around overnight, and the term fire hose seems more appropriate
given the shorter duration. Total QPF has come down just a bit
in most areas, as the models have over performed slightly so
far, and thus the totals come down. Still, an additional 1-2” is
expected across most of the area overnight, with localized amts
of 3 inches or so possible, occurring between 00 and 12Z. Will
have to watch rainfall rates overnight, for potential of some
isolated flash flooding of creeks/streams, or urban flooding.

Also, of concern is the winds, mainly near the coast as the
steady E- SE flow picks as the low develops this evening and
tonight. The low level jet does bring 50-60 kt winds down to
around 2000 ft, but the inversion is strong, so it will take
some heavy bursts of convective rain to mix the winds down
fully. But will see a few hours of sustained winds of 20-30 mph
with some gusts to around 50 or so, but wouldn’t be surprised to
see a few isolated gusts approaching 60 mph. Temperatures may
drop off a couple degrees this evening, but should start to rise
again slowly for the rest of the night.

&&

.SHORT TERM /6 AM THIS MORNING THROUGH 6 PM TUESDAY/...
Rain will end from SW to NE, starting around daybreak in srn NH
and ending in the ME mtns early afternoon. The strong E winds
should also weaken toward daybreak and switch to the SW during
the morning. It’ll be breezy, into the afternoon, but gusts look
limited to 20-25 mph, and even these will diminish quickly
during the afternoon. Should see sun start to break out outside
of the mtns and SW ME, with clearing in all but the mtns by mid-
late afternoon. It’ll also be warmer with highs ranging from the
upper 50s in the mtns to the low to mid 60s in srn NH and along
much of the coast in downslope flow. Another, weak little 500 MB
wave rotates back NE around the closed low to our W tomorrow
afternoon, and could produce some late afternoon and evening
showers across W NH and the mtns, although dynamics weaken as
you move E. Winds diminish Monday night and should see some
brief clearing, even in the mtns in the evening, but as the
upper low shifts slowly E, another weak wave rotates around it,
and may see some showers move into the west before sunrise.

&&

.LONG TERM /TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY/...
The upper low currently located over the Great Lakes will continue
its slow, eastward trek toward New England Tuesday into Wednesday
before finally crossing offshore to our south and east by Thursday
or so, maintaining our stretch of unsettled weather, featuring
cooler than normal temperatures and high chances for rain showers
through at least Thursday with lower rain chances to finish up the
week.

After today and tonight, Tuesday and Wednesday stand to see the
highest rain chances (perhaps some snow in the highest elevations)
this week thanks to a few distinct shortwaves and associated vort
maxes moving across the region with the approach of the upper low.
Ensembles means from the GFS/ECMWF suggest we could see another half
inch of rain on Tuesday and Wednesday, and in addition to this,
steepening lapse rates and cooler temperatures aloft on Tuesday
could result in a couple of storms that could contain some graupel
or small hail.

Depending on the progression of the low pressure system, we should
see lesser potential for showers on Friday, but moreso next weekend
as it looks like we finally get some drier air into the area.

&&

.AVIATION /04Z MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY/...
Short Term...Expect all terminals, except KHIE to be IFR-LIFR by
this evening, with low vis due to bouts of heavy rain, and low
cigs. Also E winds could gust to near 40 kt at times especially
at coastal terminals. Inland terminals are expected to see gusts
closer to 25kts. LLWS is also expected at all terminals tonight
with strong southeast winds up to 70kts 2000ft above the surface.
Conditions improve tomorrow from south to north during the
morning hours, with many areas seeing VFR conditions by the
afternoon.

Long Term...Flight restrictions are becoming increasingly likely
Tuesday through Thursday as a slow-moving low pressure system
approaches the region. Ceilings look to be in the MVFR range on
Tuesday, lowering to IFR and perhaps LIFR Tuesday night into early
Wednesday. Conditions could improve to MVFR or even VFR Wednesday
afternoon. Visibilities reductions are also expected within rain
showers during this time period, but there could be some fog as
well.

Some restrictions could linger into Friday, especially within rain
showers, but conditions look better toward next weekend, at least
with how things look right now.

&&

.MARINE...
Short Term...A strong low will track from N-S across New England
overnight with strong east-southeast winds reaching storm force
this evening. Winds ease and shift to a southwesterly direction
tomorrow morning, with SCA conditions and seas of 10-15ft
continuing tomorrow.

Long Term...Wind gusts look to remain just shy of SCA levels through
the middle of this week, but with that being said seas look to
remain greater than 5 ft through Wednesday or even Wednesday night.
After that, northerly winds could increase Thursday and Friday,
possibly bringing SCA conditions right back over portions of the
waters. Winds and seas then look to subside next weekend.

&&

.HYDROLOGY...
While much of NH has been shadowed and/or missed by the rainfall
today...much of the Kennebec River Valley down to the Midcoast
has already received about 3 inches of rain. At least 1 or 2
more inches is expected in these areas...along with moderate to
heavy rain moving into NH. Additional flood warnings have been
issued...primarily for the Kennebec. The bulk of the additional
rainfall will fall in the next several hours...so not only is
river flooding possible but flash flooding as well. Low lying
and urban flooding is near certain in the flood watch area.

&&

.GYX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
ME...Flood Watch through Tuesday evening for MEZ012>014-018>028-033.
     Wind Advisory until 8 AM EDT this morning for MEZ023>028.
NH...Flood Watch through Tuesday evening for NHZ002>006-008>010-012-
     013-015.
     Wind Advisory until 8 AM EDT this morning for NHZ014.
MARINE...Storm Warning until 6 AM EDT early this morning for ANZ150>154.

&&

NEAR TERM...Legro
HYDROLOGY...Legro

Hazardous weather outlook, Apr 30, 2:17 PM EST, 10 hours 43 minutes before

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Gray ME
317 PM EDT Sun Apr 30 2023

MEZ023>028-011930-
Coastal York-Coastal Cumberland-Sagadahoc-Lincoln-Knox-Coastal Waldo-
317 PM EDT Sun Apr 30 2023

...WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 AM EDT MONDAY...
...FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING THROUGH TUESDAY
EVENING...

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for south central Maine and
southwest Maine.

.DAY ONE...This afternoon and tonight.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Wind Advisory.
   Flood Watch.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Monday through Saturday.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Wind Advisory.
   Flood Watch.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotters are encouraged to report significant weather conditions
according to Standard Operating Procedures.

MEZ022-011930-
Interior Waldo-
317 PM EDT Sun Apr 30 2023

...FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING THROUGH TUESDAY
EVENING...

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for south central Maine.

.DAY ONE...This afternoon and tonight.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Flood Watch.

Strong wind gusts exceeding 40 mph are possible overnight tonight.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Monday through Saturday.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

 Flood Watch.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotters are encouraged to report significant weather conditions
according to Standard Operating Procedures.

MEZ012>014-018>021-033-NHZ002>006-008>010-012-013-015-011930-
Southern Oxford-Southern Franklin-Southern Somerset-Interior York-
Central Interior Cumberland-Androscoggin-Kennebec-
Interior Cumberland Highlands-Southern Coos-Northern Grafton-
Northern Carroll-Southern Grafton-Southern Carroll-Merrimack-Belknap-
Strafford-Eastern Hillsborough-Interior Rockingham-
Western And Central Hillsborough-
317 PM EDT Sun Apr 30 2023

...FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING THROUGH TUESDAY
EVENING...

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for Maine, south central Maine,
southwest Maine, western Maine, New Hampshire, central New
Hampshire, northern New Hampshire and southern New Hampshire.

.DAY ONE...This afternoon and tonight.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Flood Watch.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Monday through Saturday.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Flood Watch.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotters are encouraged to report significant weather conditions
according to Standard Operating Procedures.

NHZ014-011930-
Coastal Rockingham-
317 PM EDT Sun Apr 30 2023

...WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 AM EDT MONDAY...

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for southern New Hampshire.

.DAY ONE...This afternoon and tonight.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Wind Advisory.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Monday through Saturday.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Wind Advisory.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotters are encouraged to report significant weather conditions
according to Standard Operating Procedures.

MEZ007>009-NHZ001-007-011-011930-
Northern Oxford-Northern Franklin-Central Somerset-Northern Coos-
Sullivan-Cheshire-
317 PM EDT Sun Apr 30 2023

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for west central Maine, western
Maine, central New Hampshire, northern New Hampshire and southern
New Hampshire.

.DAY ONE...This afternoon and tonight.

Low pressure tracking northward along the East Coast tonight into
Monday is expected to bring widespread moderate to locally heavy
rainfall to the region. Minor flooding is possible, including minor
river flooding early this week.

Strong wind gusts exceeding 45 mph are possible tonight, mostly at
high elevations.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Monday through Saturday.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not expected at this time.

ANZ150>154-011930-
Coastal Waters from Stonington, ME to Port Clyde, ME out 25 NM-
Penobscot Bay-
Coastal Waters from Port Clyde, ME to Cape Elizabeth, ME out 25 NM-
Casco Bay-
Coastal Waters from Cape Elizabeth, ME to Merrimack River, MA out
25 NM-
317 PM EDT Sun Apr 30 2023

...STORM WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 AM EDT MONDAY...

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for Atlantic coastal waters.

.DAY ONE...This afternoon and tonight.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Storm Warning.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Monday through Saturday.

Storm force winds will give way to small craft conditions by early
Monday morning.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not expected at this time.

In the hours before

Local storm report, Apr 30, 7:46 PM EST, 5 hours 14 minutes before

PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE GRAY ME
846 PM EDT SUN APR 30 2023

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

0817 PM     HEAVY RAIN       THOMASTON               44.08N 69.18W
04/30/2023  M2.06 INCH       KNOX               ME   TRAINED SPOTTER

&&

SMT

Local storm report, Apr 30, 8:09 PM EST, 4 hours 51 minutes before

PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE GRAY ME
909 PM EDT SUN APR 30 2023

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

0900 PM     HEAVY RAIN       CAPE NEDDICK            43.16N 70.62W
04/30/2023  M2.72 INCH       YORK               ME   PUBLIC

            PUBLIC REPORT FROM SOCIAL MEDIA.

&&

SMT

Local storm report, May 1, 12:57 AM EST, 3 minutes before

PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE GRAY ME
157 AM EDT MON MAY 1 2023

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

0111 AM     NON-TSTM WND DMG 4 SE NORTH WINDHAM      43.80N 70.37W
05/01/2023                   CUMBERLAND         ME   LAW ENFORCEMENT

            TREE DOWN BLOCKING THE ROADWAY.

0111 AM     NON-TSTM WND DMG 2 SSE NORTH WINDHAM     43.80N 70.43W
05/01/2023                   CUMBERLAND         ME   LAW ENFORCEMENT

            TREE WITH WIRES DOWN ACROSS ROADWAY.

0127 AM     NON-TSTM WND DMG RAYMOND                 43.90N 70.47W
05/01/2023                   CUMBERLAND         ME   LAW ENFORCEMENT

            TREE DOWN ACROSS THE ROADWAY.

&&

The radar

The Portland,ME radar (KGYX), 97 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 06:00 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

36 flash flood, 29 flood. Local standard time, as filed.

Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 1:00 AM EST to 6:00 PM EST
Where: Oxford County, Bryon to 0.73 mi W of Bryon
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 44.720, -70.620

Heavy rain caused the Swift River to come out of banks and flood portions of Byron and Roxbury. The river came out of banks during the early morning hours which caused the closure of Maine Route 17, that resulted in significant disruption to travel in and out of the area. The river crested at 10.8 feet by early afternoon, which is 3.8 feet above flood stage.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 4:28 AM EST to 5:40 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Waterford to 0.39 mi NNE of Waterford
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.180, -70.720

Heavy rainfall between 3.5 to 4.5 inches fell over saturated ground on the morning of May 1. The runoff caused a washout on Waterford Road.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 5:00 AM EST to 6:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 1.91 mi SSE of Welchville to 1.74 mi S of Welchville
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.105, -70.453

Washout occurred on Rabbit Valley Road in Otisfield after 3.5 to 4.5 inches of rain fell on saturated ground early in the morning of May 1.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 5:08 AM EST to 6:20 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 0.59 mi NNE of Allens to 0.72 mi NNE of Allens
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.407, -70.864

Heavy rain resulted in a washout on Gibson Road in West Bethel.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 5:29 AM EST to 6:30 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 4 mi NW of Denmark to 1.97 mi N of West Denmark
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.011, -70.857

Heavy rainfall between 3.5 to 4.5 inches fell over already saturated ground resulting in a 4 foot sinkhole on Smith Road.

Flash Flood, Androscoggin

When: May 1, 5:44 AM EST to 7:44 AM EST
Where: Androscoggin County, 0.31 mi ENE of South Livermore to 0.2 mi S of Livermore Center
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.351, -70.194

River Road washed out by excessive runoff from 5.0 to 5.5 inches of rainfall on the morning of May 1. Road impassable for over a month.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 5:51 AM EST to 9:30 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 1.4 mi W of Peru to 6.11 mi NW of Dixfield
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $36,000
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.502, -70.428

Heavy rainfall between 3 and 4 inches fell over Dixfield on the morning of May 1. The heavy rain over saturated ground caused a washout on Averill Hill Road. Severy Hill and Valley Road were closed due to flooding. Route 164 and Coolidge Road had multiple washouts along the edge of the road. A significant washout occurred on Valley Brook Road.

Flash Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 6:00 AM EST to 9:00 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, 4 mi WSW of Wilton to 1.58 mi WNW of Wilton
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.558, -70.295

A water rescue was needed around Route 17 in North Jay/Wilton town line for a car washed off the road.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 6:00 AM EST to 7:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, South Paris to 1.38 mi W of Hebron
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.220, -70.500

Washout on Mount Micha Road after approximately 4 inches of rain fell on already saturated ground on the morning of May 1.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 6:00 AM EST to 12:00 PM EST
Where: Franklin County, 1.85 mi SW of Phillips Raymond Arp to 1.12 mi WSW of Madrid
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.810, -70.375

The headwaters of the Sandy River came out of banks and flooded the basements and garages of homes in Phillips and closed Route 142 and 149. Additional roads that flooded were Bray Hill Road, East Madrid Road, Weld Road, Bridge Street, Salem Road near Auger Drive, #6 road. The USGS river gage at Madrid indicated the river crested at 10.64 feet, which was just below the highest peak on record for this short period of record gauge. In Madrid Township River Road flooded.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 6:08 AM EST to 7:15 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Peru to 3 mi NNE of East Peru
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 44.500, -70.400

Flash floods caused a washout on Greenwoods Road after 3.5 to 4.5 inches of rainfall fell on the morning of May 1.

Flood, Knox

When: May 1, 6:09 AM EST to 5:00 PM EST
Where: Knox County, Camden to 5.81 mi SE of Glen Cove
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $690,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.220, -69.070

Widespread and numerous flooded roads across Knox County. Coastal flooding was concurrent with the heavy rainfall and increased the impacts. Roads that were flooded include Route 1 in Camden, Route 105 in Hope and Washington, Route 126 in Jefferson, and Route 131 near Campground Road in Appleton.

Flood, Cumberland

When: May 1, 6:15 AM EST to 5:00 PM EST
Where: Cumberland County, New Gloucester to 0.96 mi E of Intervale
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $289,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 43.970, -70.280

Rainfall measured between 3.5 to 5.15 inches fell across Cumberland County between April 30 and May 1. This rainfall caused flooding of numerous low lying roads and multiple road closures. The Royal River flooded a portion of Route 211 in North Gloucester causing its closure for 2 days.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 6:18 AM EST to 10:18 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, 2.02 mi SE of Farmington Falls to 2.14 mi SSE of Farmington Falls
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.600, -70.040

Route 41 flooded in Farmington.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 6:31 AM EST to 9:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 2.45 mi W of Oxford to 3.93 mi WSW of Norway Oxford Co Arp
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.134, -70.529

Multiple washouts between Gore Road and Hidden Lake Road on the morning of May 1 after 3.5 to 4.5 inches of rain fell over already saturated ground.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 6:31 AM EST to 8:30 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 0.88 mi NNW of Denmark to 1.14 mi NNW of Denmark
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 43.981, -70.808

Heavy rainfall between 3.5 to 4.5 inches over already saturated ground resulted in a washout on Route 117 in Denmark.

Flood, Kennebec

When: May 1, 6:37 AM EST to 10:00 AM EST
Where: Kennebec County, 0.31 mi WNW of Belgrade Lakes to 1 mi SSE of Belgrade Lakes
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.531, -69.886

Route 27 flooded in Mount Vernon near Belgrade Lakes.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:00 AM EST to 8:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Roxbury to 0.85 mi WNW of Roxbury
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.670, -70.580

Heavy rainfall caused the Swift River to rapidly rise and washout on Roxbury Notch Road.

Flood, Androscoggin

When: May 1, 7:00 AM EST to 2:20 PM EST
Where: Androscoggin County, 0.7 mi SE of North Livermore to Chase Mills
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1.4 million
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.423, -70.210

Heavy rainfall measured between 4 to 5.5 inches fell across Androscoggin County. Small streams rapidly responded with flooding in several communities including Livermore, Turner, Auburn, Leeds, and Wales. The hardest hit area was Wales where numerous road closures including Route 132 which significantly disrupted travel in and out of the area. A washout on Turkey Lane in Livermore led to basement flooding of a nearby property.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 7:00 AM EST to 2:00 PM EST
Where: Franklin County, 0.41 mi WSW of Farmington to 0.17 mi SSW of Farmington
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.667, -70.157

Floodwaters from the Sandy River combined with local runoff from the Beaver Brook in Farmington to cause significant flooding along Main Street by the Hippach Field as well as Front Street. Floodwaters inundated Abbott Park with water several feet deep. Businesses on Main Street had floodwaters of a few inches deep within their first floors. The USGS river gage in Madrid crested at a stage of 10.6 feet and the Mercer gage crested at 14.62 feet, both 2 to 4 feet above flood stage. The high flows on the Sandy River resulted in backwater along the Temple Stream which flooded a business off Route 2 & 4 in Farmington.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 7:00 AM EST to 12:00 PM EST
Where: Franklin County, 0.55 mi NW of Strong to 0.22 mi SE of Phillips
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $235,000
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 44.805, -70.229

Flooding along the Sandy River between Phillips and Strong caused numerous road closures including parts of Route 4 and River Road. Hardest hit was in Avon where backwater along a brook paralleling the Avon Valley Road flooded a home.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 7:00 AM EST to 10:00 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, 0.85 mi SE of East Madrid to 1.14 mi SE of East Madrid
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.890, -70.370

Bray Bill Road flooded in Wilton/Salem.

Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:00 AM EST to 10:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 0.97 mi S of Greenwood to 1.61 mi SSW of Greenwood
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.306, -70.650

Greenwood Road impassable due to flooding.

Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:00 AM EST to 11:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 1.38 mi S of East Sweden to 1.66 mi SSW of East Sweden
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.130, -70.770

Hardscrabble Road closed due to flooding.

Flood, York

When: May 1, 7:00 AM EST to 12:00 PM EST
Where: York County, 2.81 mi S of East Lebanon to 1.5 mi W of West Lebanon
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 43.380, -70.880

Heavy rain caused flooding across York County including Route 11 in Limerick and Route 202 in Lebanon. County rain gage reports range rom 3.5 to 4.7 inches in Limington.

Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:00 AM EST to May 2, 2:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Gilead to 1.96 mi SSE of Gilead
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1.2 million
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.400, -70.980

The Androscoggin River reached flood stage during the morning of May 1. Flood waters out of Gorham flooded areas from Gilead, to extensive flooding in Bethel and Rumford. Flooding started at North Road in Gilead, followed by Route 26 in Bethel between Cross Street and Intervale Road. In Rumford, South Rumford Road flooded. Low spots flood along the Swift and Androscoggin Rivers in Mexico and Rumford flooded including parks and boat launches. The USGS river gage in Rumford crested at 15.76 feet, less than a foot above flood stage.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:08 AM EST to 7:40 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 1.74 mi N of North Bethel to 1.89 mi N of North Bethel
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.475, -70.830

Heavy rainfall resulted in excessive runoff and a rapid rise in the Sunday River. A vehicle was stuck in flood waters and necessitated a water rescue on Sunday River Road.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 7:13 AM EST to 11:13 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, Farmington to 0.08 mi W of Farmington
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 44.670, -70.150

A portion of Main Street flooded.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 7:13 AM EST to 10:00 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, 1.7 mi NW of Temple to 0.66 mi WNW of Temple
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.700, -70.240

Interval Road flooded in Temple.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 7:15 AM EST to 9:50 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, 1.47 mi SSE of Rangeley Muni Arpt to 1.34 mi SSE of Rangeley Muni Arpt
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.960, -70.660

Manor Road flooded in Rangeley.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 7:15 AM EST to 11:00 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, New Vineyard to 0.49 mi NW of New Vineyard
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.800, -70.120

Flooding on Route 27 and 234 in New Vineyard.

Flood, Somerset

When: May 1, 7:17 AM EST to May 2, 2:00 AM EST
Where: Somerset County, 2.02 mi NW of North Anson to 3.31 mi ENE of East New Portland
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.873, -69.906

The Carrabassett River rose 7 feet above flood stage on May 1 after 3 to 4 inches of rain fell over the watershed. The river crested at 22.08 feet in the early afternoon, reaching the 2nd highest flow since the flood of April 1987. Impacts included flooding of Route 27 north of Kingfield, Route 16 and Route 146 in New Portland. Widespread low lying flooding including impacts to agricultural fields were observed in North Anson.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:23 AM EST to 8:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Stow to 1.12 mi W of Stow
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.170, -70.980

Heavy rainfall between 3.5 to 4.5 inches caused flooding on Stow Road or Maine Route 113 resulting in a water rescue.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:23 AM EST to 8:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Gilead to 0.4 mi W of Gilead
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.400, -70.980

Flooding on North Road in Gilead resulted in a water rescue to a motorist.

Flash Flood, Cumberland

When: May 1, 7:26 AM EST to 8:30 AM EST
Where: Cumberland County, Raymond to 1.3 mi NE of Raymond
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 43.900, -70.470

Heavy rainfall estimated between 3.5 to 4.5 inches on the morning of May 1 resulted in a washout on Webbs Mills Road.

Flash Flood, Androscoggin

When: May 1, 7:30 AM EST to 9:30 AM EST
Where: Androscoggin County, 1.54 mi NE of Greene to 1.47 mi SW of South Leeds
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $184,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.218, -70.111

Multiple washouts on College Road train tracks flooding and again near the Stetson Brook crossing. Multiple washouts on Lane Road from an un-named stream that flows into Stetson Brook. Road washouts on both South and North Mountain Roads. Road washed away on Morse Cemetary Road after an un-named stream overwhelmed a culvert. Damage to bridge on South Mountain Road.

Flash Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 7:30 AM EST to 10:00 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, 2.81 mi SSE of New Vineyard to 1.01 mi SSW of Allens Mills
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $130,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.764, -70.094

Flash flooding caused washouts on multiple roads in the town of Industry. Those roads include Greenwood Brook Road, Shaw Hill Road, New Sharon Road, Baily Road with multiple washouts, and Federal Row.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:30 AM EST to 10:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Hartford to 0.98 mi E of Hartford
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $240,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.380, -70.350

Town of Hartford sustained a washout between Route 219 and 140 and damage to two bridges.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:30 AM EST to 9:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 2.21 mi N of South Woodstock to 2.38 mi W of Bryant Pond
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $120,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.382, -70.557

Flash flooding caused washouts on numerous roads in Woodstock including Redding Road, Concord Road, Pond Road, and Swinton Road.

Flood, Waldo

When: May 1, 7:37 AM EST to 2:00 PM EST
Where: Waldo County, 0.49 mi W of Lincolnville Center to 2.32 mi WNW of Northport
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.300, -69.110

Heavy rain caused excessive runoff from the Camden Hills. This resulted in flooding on Route 52 in Hope and Route 220 in Montville.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:45 AM EST to 9:45 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Brownfield to 1.47 mi SSW of Brownfield
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 43.930, -70.900

Heay rainfall resulted in numerous road closures and washouts across Brownfield including Sam Brown Hill Road, Hampshire Road, Merrill Corner Road and Dugway Road. There were numerous washouts on Old County Road.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 7:46 AM EST to 9:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, (Rum)rumford to 0.35 mi SW of (Rum)rumford
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 44.550, -70.530

Heavy rainfall between 3.5 and 4.5 inches on already saturated ground resulted in a washout on Maine Route 108.

Flash Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 7:46 AM EST to 9:30 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, 5 mi SE of Weld to 5.02 mi S of Weld
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.649, -70.348

Heavy rain caused a washout on Maine Route 156 in Weld.

Flash Flood, Cumberland

When: May 1, 8:00 AM EST to 9:45 AM EST
Where: Cumberland County, 1.56 mi WNW of Harrison Maple Arpt to 0.04 mi W of Harrison Maple Arpt
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $265,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.085, -70.661

Multiple washouts on Carsley Road in Harrison.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 8:00 AM EST to 12:00 PM EST
Where: Franklin County, Kingfield to 1.02 mi N of Kingfield
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $20,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.950, -70.150

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 8:00 AM EST to 9:30 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Sumner to 0.83 mi W of Sumner
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $144,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.400, -70.430

Flooding of the Darnit Brook damaged Rosenburg and Decoster Roads in Sumner. Decoster Road sustained multiple washouts near the brook crossing and two of five culvers.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 8:00 AM EST to 9:30 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, West Paris to 2.13 mi E of Trap Corner
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $110,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.320, -70.570

Flash flooding caused numerous shoulder washouts on roads across West Paris. The hardest hit road was along Ellingwood Road near Ryerson Hill Road where a complete washout occurred.

Flash Flood, Knox

When: May 1, 8:00 AM EST to 9:00 AM EST
Where: Knox County, 1.29 mi SE of Washington to 1.24 mi SE of Washington
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $30,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.255, -69.354

Rounds of heavy rainfall resulted in flooding of small streams in Washington. The Little Medomack Brook washout out part of Calderwood Road and Davis Stream flooded Varner road.

Flash Flood, Lincoln

When: May 1, 8:00 AM EST to 9:00 AM EST
Where: Lincoln County, 2.95 mi ESE of Ft Edgecomb to 2.76 mi E of North Edgecomb
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $90,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 43.990, -69.592

Significant damage to Spring Run Hill Road in Edgecomb after an un-named tributary to the Deer Meadow Brook flooded 325 feet of roadway. Multiple Culverts and 175 feet of roadway washed out.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 8:00 AM EST to 9:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 0.5 mi E of Yagger to 0.38 mi NE of Yagger
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.220, -70.620

Runoff from Jim Hill in Norway flooded and resulted in the closure of Route 118.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 8:00 AM EST to 10:00 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 5.66 mi SSE of Upton to 7.53 mi SSE of Upton
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.630, -70.960

Runoff from Hemingway Ridge caused the Swift Cambridge River to flood and close the major access Route 26, leading to significant disruption to travel in and out of the region.

Flash Flood, Somerset

When: May 1, 8:00 AM EST to 9:00 AM EST
Where: Somerset County, 0.77 mi ESE of North Fairfield to 0.69 mi ESE of North Fairfield
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 44.646, -69.655

Heavy rain estimated around 3.5 inches cause an un-named small stream to the Fish Brook to overwhelm a culvert on Green Road in Fairfield. The resulting flood washed out a 10 foot section of the road.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 8:14 AM EST to 9:15 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 1.2 mi SE of Redding to 1.33 mi SE of Redding
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.410, -70.500

West Branch of the Nezinscot River flooded Redding Road Bridge.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 8:40 AM EST to 9:40 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Lovell to 0.55 mi W of Lovell
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 44.120, -70.880

Heavy rainfall between 3.5 to 4.5 inches caused a washout on Route 5 in Lovell.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 8:44 AM EST to 11:00 AM EST
Where: Franklin County, 0.98 mi E of Strong to 0.7 mi E of Strong
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.800, -70.200

Norton Hill Road flooded and closed.

Flood, Androscoggin

When: May 1, 9:00 AM EST to 4:00 PM EST
Where: Androscoggin County, 1.28 mi E of Shy Corner to 2.27 mi E of Shy Corner
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $300,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.469, -70.144

Moose Hill Pond overtopped and caused excessive flows on Redwater Brook. This resulted in flooding of the water treatment plant and significant damages.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 9:00 AM EST to 9:45 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 0.7 mi SE of Number Four to 0.46 mi SSE of Number Four
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $117,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.142, -70.871

Bridge washout on Fern Road in Lovell from the Kezar River.

Flood, Franklin

When: May 1, 9:10 AM EST to 2:00 PM EST
Where: Franklin County, 1.96 mi W of Kingfield to 1.68 mi NE of Soules Mills
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.950, -70.190

West Kingfield Road closed after the West Branch of the Carrabasset River flooded.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 9:14 AM EST to 9:45 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, 2 mi WSW of Mexico Hunts Fld Arp to 2.11 mi SSW of (Rum)rumford
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 44.515, -70.534

Heavy rainfall of 3.5 to 4.5 inches on the morning of May 1 resulted in a washout on South Rumford Road.

Flood, Somerset

When: May 1, 9:30 AM EST to May 4, 10:00 PM EST
Where: Somerset County, Skowhegan to 0.71 mi ESE of Skowhegan
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 44.770, -69.720

Heavy rainfall caused the Kennebec River to overflow its banks and cause flooding in Skowhegan and Winslow. Flooding was observed on the southbound lane of Route 2 in Skowhegan near Malbons Mills Road. Campground flooding was up to 2 feet deep on the east side of town. Fort Halifax Park in Winslow flooded. The river peak flow was measured around 76k cfs on May 2.

Flash Flood, Oxford

When: May 1, 9:41 AM EST to 10:40 AM EST
Where: Oxford County, Kezar Falls to 0.8 mi SE of Porter
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 43.800, -70.880

Heavy rainfall between 3.5 to 4.5 inches fell over already saturated ground on the morning of May 1. The resultant flash flood washed out a portion of Route 160.

Flood, Lincoln

When: May 1, 10:00 AM EST to May 2, 2:00 AM EST
Where: Lincoln County, Alna to 1.04 mi NNE of Alna
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $476,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.100, -69.600

The Sheepscot River came out of banks and flooded portions of High Tide Road or Route 194 just south of Hollywood Boulevard. Floodwaters were up to the foundations of a few homes. The river crested at 8.56 feet around 6 PM on the evening of May 1. Floodwaters damaged Route 194.

Flood, Lincoln

When: May 1, 10:00 AM EST to 2:00 PM EST
Where: Lincoln County, 0.72 mi SSE of Alna Center to 0.78 mi ENE of Alna Center
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $100,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.070, -69.617

Heavy rain resulted in a small pond overtopping and flooding Route 218 in south of Alna with 2 to 3 feet of water. The pond drains into Dyer River, a small tributary of the Sheepscot River.

Flood, Kennebec

When: May 1, 10:28 AM EST to 4:00 PM EST
Where: Kennebec County, 0.85 mi NNW of Rome to 1.23 mi NW of Rome
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 44.592, -69.854

A combinate of high lake levels on Great Pond and heavy rainfall caused flooding on Route 225 in Rome.

Flood, Kennebec

When: May 1, 11:00 AM EST to May 6, 12:00 AM EST
Where: Kennebec County, 0.9 mi NNW of Augusta to 1.44 mi WSW of Pittston
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $581,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 44.331, -69.759

The Kennebec River came out of banks and on May 1 and caused significant flooding to several businesses between Augusta and Gardiner. The discharge measured at the USGS river gage in Sydney, just upstream of Augusta, had a 10 year peak flow of 113,000 cfs, which is tied as the third highest streamflow with June 1, 1984 and exceeded only by the flood of 1987 and 1936. The river crested at 20.3 feet in Augusta and 16.8 feet in Hallowell, just shy of the 18 foot stage for major flood level. The flooding was the result of a basin average of 4.5 inches, most of which ran off from nearly saturated ground conditions.

The most significant impacts occurred in Gardiner along the confluence of the Cobbosseecontee Stream and the Kennebec River, both of which were running at flood levels. The overflow resulted in flooding of parking lots and basements between Water Street and Arcade Street and businesses south of Bridge Street and Main Avenue. Flood waters were reported of 2 to 3 feet deep in parking lots. Flooding was prevalent along Front Street in Augusta and Hallowell where basement flooding occurred along several businesses and apartment complexes, including a US Postal Service building. Over a dozen vehicles flooded after waters submerged parking lots. The impacts were most notable on the west bank of the Kennebec River with minimal impacts on the east bank.

What these are

Flood: Flooding that develops more slowly than a flash flood: rivers leaving their banks, or water standing over land for an extended time.
Flash Flood: Flooding that begins within six hours of the rain that causes it, or of a dam or levee failure or ice jam release, often with deadly speed.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in Maine in 2023 Every state in 2023 This day in weather history Warnings in Maine, May 2023

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 1101909, 1101763, 1101750, 1101801, 1101789, 1101723, 1101738, 1101725, 1101745, 1101919, 1101734, 1102141, 1102117, 1102120, 1101747, 1101787, 1102139, 1101744, 1101866, 1101931, 1101949, 1102132, 1102142, 1102143, 1102149, 1102150, 1101804, 1102119, 1102121, 1102124, 1102134, 1101914, 1101797, 1101800, 1101754, 1102039, 1102047, 1102053, 1102073, 1102148, and more.