MAINE PUBLIC • September 12, 2025
While some parts of Maine saw rain over the weekend, drought conditions are still in effect. They're affecting all types of crops — from apples to potatoes to wild blueberries. But the biggest challenge may be for farmers who grow hay to feed their livestock. Young cows rest in the shade at Milkhouse Farms in Monmouth on Sept. 8, 2025. In typical summer, inland Maine sees between 6 and 12 inches of rain. The coastal areas see about 6-10 inches. This year, all regions, with exception to some of Aroostook County, saw less than half of normal rainfall. Average temperatures were about two degrees higher too, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. These combined factors put Maine in what experts call a flash drought.