The Androscoggin River in Maine has a long history of significant flooding events that have impacted communities along its banks. Here are some key points about floods in Androscoggin County and surrounding areas:
Historical Floods
The Androscoggin River has experienced numerous major floods over the centuries:
- The earliest recorded flood was in February 1723, when the river was open “even to the falls thirty miles above Pejepscot” (Brunswick/Topsham).
- In October 1785, “the greatest freshet ever yet recorded on the Androscoggin River” caused widespread damage from Bethel to Brunswick.
- The March 1936 flood is considered one of the most severe, with an estimated recurrence interval greater than 100 years. It caused extensive damage in Lewiston and Auburn.
- Other notable floods occurred in April 1987 (estimated 75-year recurrence interval), March 1953, and October 1959.
Recent Flooding Events
More recent significant floods include:
- December 2003: Higher than average flows combined with extensive ice jams caused flooding.
- April 2005 and January 2006: Ice jams led to flooding in Bethel.
- December 2023: A major storm caused the Androscoggin to reach flood stage, inundating low-lying areas in Lewiston and Auburn.
- March 2024: Heavy rain and snowmelt raised the river to flood levels again.
Flood Impacts and Response
Floods on the Androscoggin have resulted in:
- Damage to homes, businesses, roads, and infrastructure along the river.
- Evacuations of residents in flood-prone areas.
- The closure of bridges and roads is due to high water levels.
- Economic losses to communities and businesses in the flood zone.
Local and state authorities have implemented various flood control and mitigation measures over the years, including:
- Construction of dams to help regulate river flow.
- Development of flood warning systems and evacuation plans.
- Relocation of some structures to higher ground in flood-prone areas.
Climate Change Considerations
Climate change could potentially increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, putting communities along the Androscoggin at greater flood risk in the future. Ongoing efforts to improve flood resilience and update flood management strategies will be crucial for protecting lives and property in Androscoggin County and beyond.