While we have seen some significant rain the past 24 hours, more is still on the way. Elements of rain continue to push inland from the ocean this evening and will only become more widespread during the next few hours. The map below shows how much rain has fallen in the past 24 hours. Notice extreme southern Maine has not had much at all.

If this was a winter nor’easter Portland and Brunswick (and other surrounding towns) would have seen a foot of snow by now with another foot or two predicted for the rest of the storm. There would have been a lull during the day today from the snow allowing us to dig out. It’s not unprecedented to have a long-duration snowstorm that lasts two or more days, but they are rare. This current nor’easter is occurring with warmer air so we don’t need to worry about snow.

This evening we find ourselves watching more rain rotate in from the ocean. This will continue on and off for the next 48 hours. This isn’t a monster fall storm, but nevertheless will bring periods of moderate to heavy rain and some gusty winds. Since winds will be gusty, it’s not impossible some of you lose your power. The power went out at my house earlier today and while I have no idea why, (it could have been a downed tree) I do know it did affect a significant area around my home.

Additional rainfall will average 1 to 3 inches with the highest amounts over eastern Maine. Some areas could see more rain than 3 inches which would create flooding issues. The map below shows expected rainfall through the early morning on Thursday, but more is expected thereafter.

The ground is getting quite wet, but can still hold more water. However, with the trees no longer using the water it won’t take quite as long for some small creeks and streams to flood. Eventually, the ground will become saturated and then problems occur from all the runoff. Street flooding is the biggest concern because with wet leaves and heavy rain big puddles can develop quickly.

The radar shows moderate to heavy rain moving inland from the ocean and this will continue through the evening commute. I expect if you are traveling this evening it will take a bit longer than normal. At times the rain will be quite light and then pick up in intensity.

The rain continues Thursday. If there are heavy bands in the morning, your commute will be a slow one. Again, like we are seeing now the rain comes in waves.

The reason for our inclement weather is a slow moving coastal storm off the coast south of New England. This storm will continue to slowly move northward over the next several days. Eventually, by Friday, the storm will be far enough north, so the rain will taper to showers.

The weather continues to improve Friday evening, but really we must wait until the weekend for a return to sunshine and milder air. Both Saturday and Sunday are looking fantastic with lots of sun and highs well into the 50s. There might even milder air for Monday and Tuesday.

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