Separate storm brings rain to Maine

PORTLAND – Maine received some much-needed rain on Monday – but not from Hurricane Michelle.

Art Lester of the National Weather Service said it is fortunate the rain came before the ground froze so it can seep into the ground to help replenish groundwater supplies. November is the wettest month of the year, but the rains will help the low aquifers only if the ground isn’t frozen.

“This is a substantial soaking – the first we’ve had in a long, long time,” Lester said.

The state will still need more rain to bring groundwater levels back to normal. The prolonged dry spell has caused wells to run dry across the state.

Lester said gradual clearing was expected for Tuesday with blustery weather Wednesday when Hurricane Michelle passes by Newfoundland. Maine is not expected to receive rainfall from the hurricane, which blew across south Florida on Monday.