Maine, USA, was hit by a storm on Saturday, December 14, bringing with it a record amount of rain. Portland, the largest city in the state, has recorded 8.5 cm of rainfall. This was almost double the previous 4.5cm maximum set in 1917, according to the Press Herald.
Unprecedented rains caused a sharp rise in water levels in local rivers and streams, and many roads in the southern part of the state were flooded. Flood waters peaked on Saturday night, according to the US National Weather Service, causing violent torrents to sweep city streets.
Roads were closed in all counties in Cumberland and York, and in Portland, flood waters collapsed roads. The flood surpassed all fears: initially, the Meteorological Service predicted that the Presampskot River would rise to a level of 4.5 m, but on Saturday the water rise was 5 m.
Meteorologists warned that strong winds and dangerous seas could impair visibility, damage ships and even sink them. Sea shipping should be postponed until weather conditions improve. Incoming ships are advised to change course and seek safe harbor.
