CAMDEN — By dusk July 9, the tropical storm that sped across Maine was clearing out, leaving open skies behind it. But in its wake, the storm left streams and rivers full of water, helping to ease drought-like conditions that have been predominating since early spring.

The steady and heavy rain that moved up the East Coast, through the Gulf of Maine and toward the Maritimes totaled four inches and more, according to the National Weather Service. Locally, in West Rockport, five inches of rainfall collected in one rain gauge.

While the storm was winding down by 9 p.m., high surf warnings remain in effect through Saturday morning.

But despite the heavy rain that raised flood warning flags, few complained. The state has been lacking in rainfall all year. As of July 1, the U.S. Drought Monitor said most of New Hampshire and Western Maine were observing drought conditions, which developed following below normal precipitation last spring.

Groundwater levels have failed to get typical recharge from winter snowmelt or spring rains, “so the deterioration of soil moisture over the last five weeks has led to a rapid drop in streamflows, reservoir levels and well readings,” said the NWS, in a July 1 drought statement.

Anecdotally, wells were also starting to suffer in the Midcoast, as well, as the dry weather persisted.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s drought information system, Knox and Waldo counties have been in moderate drought conditions. Moderate drought affects the hay and grain yields, as well as honey production, while wildfires and ground fires increase in number.

Moderate drought is a step up from “abnormally dry” and one step below severe drought.

Year 2021 so far in Knox County has been the 10th driest to date in 127 years; Waldo County is experiencing the eighth driest year in 127 years.

In Knox County, the rainfall amounts for the year has been 5.99 inches below normal; in Waldo County, 2021’s rainfall total has been 5.81 inches below normal.

The copious rain of July 9 will help replenish soil moisture, and give the gardens a much needed soaking.