Maine Climate News, August 19

Eastport Establishes Data Center Moratorium

Following overwhelming public opposition from residents and tribal nations, Eastport City Council unanimously elected to pause DeepGreen’s underwater data center project for 180 days. No applications or licenses associated with the project can be approved for the duration of the moratorium. The moratorium will last 180 days unless extended or a permanent data center ban is passed by the city.

Eastport City Councilor Karen Raye stated that this is not a replacement for a ban—it will give the city more time to explore their options for a permanent data center ban.

Sources: The Maine Monitor and Maine Public

Water Restrictions in Kittery Amid Drought

Drought and dry conditions in Kittery have led to townwide water restrictions on outdoor plant and lawn watering. Residents will only be allowed to water their plants and lawns 2 days a week between 8 PM and 7 AM, excluding weekends.

The four sources that provide the town’s water supply are at levels usually seen around November and December. Conservation efforts are needed to have sufficient water levels by the highest flow period in the winter, when the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard uses a significant amount of water in Kittery’s water district.

Water restrictions are extremely rare for a water-rich state like Maine.

Source: Maine Public

Katahdin Woods and Waters Monument Celebrates 10 Years

Designated a national monument in 2016 by Barack Obama, the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument celebrated its 10th anniversary this weekend.

Since then, Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters have helped add more campsites and create a welcome center in collaboration with the Wabanaki Nations.

The group also organized multiple free events, including a bird watch, paddle excursion, an earring making class led by a Wabanaki artist, and a ribbon cutting for their newly renovated overlook.

Source: Maine Public

Severe Storms Hit Portland with Hail and Extreme Wind

A sudden storm hit the Portland area last week with 70 MPH winds and heavy precipitation, including nickel-sized hail. Streets flooded, trees were knocked down, hail piled up like snow, and thousands lost power.

National Weather Service Meteorologist Hunter Tubbs explained that 70 MPH winds are very unusual for the area. Climate change has increased the intensity of storms, and this storm is just another example of how Maine will be impacted by a changing climate.

Source: Maine Public