The 7 Most Horrifying Disasters That Ever Happened In Maine

It's not easy to think about the sad parts of a state's past, but it's the hard parts that forge who we are today. Maine didn't become the strong, special place it is without overcoming some challenges, and it's important to pay homage to the people who witnessed and survived these trying times. Without glorifying them, here are some of the worst disasters our state has had to face; these are seven natural disasters in Maine nobody will ever forget:

1. The December Nor'easter (1960)

This epic storm hit along the east coast from Virginia to Maine. While the snow was heavy, the most dangerous element was the strong wind, measured at over 90 mph along the coast of New England. The cold air was also life threatening. In Maine, the Turnpike was closed due to "marooned" vehicles.

2. The Saint John River Flood (2008)

This 2008 flood was the worst of the Saint John River in 35 years. While many people might think of Canada in relation to this flood, it seriously damaged many areas in Northern Maine.

3. The Ice Storm of 1998

This huge storm hit the state in 1998, knocking out power for half of Maine. Power remained out for over two weeks in January and the damage was estimated to cost hundreds of millions of dollars. Mobilization of the Maine National Guard was necessary and it is still considered one of the worst natural disasters in Maine's history.

4. The Portland Gale (1898)

While this storm didn't ravage the state of Maine, it certainly impacted the state. The storm began as a result of two low pressure areas merging off the coast of Virginia. The weather moved up the coast, causing a storm surge of about ten feet in some places. Despite the fact that the storm didn't devastate Maine, it was named after the ship that was lost at sea as result. On November 26, 1898, the SS Portland left Boston, headed for Maine. All 192 passengers and crew were killed in the storm.

5. The Great Fires of 1947

This series of forest fires, which burned more than 17,188 acres of land across York County and Mount Desert Island, were a result of drought conditions in July of 1947. Small fires in Portland, Bowdoin and Wells were reported to the Forest Service on October 7. Soon more fires were reported and by October 16, there were 20 separate fires burning in Maine.

6. The Great Fire of Portland (1866)

The July 4th first in Portland began in a boat house on Commercial Street. It was probably caused by a firecracker or other merriment related spark. After burning on Commercial Street, the blaze spread to a lumber yard and then to a sugar house. Soon, it had spread across the city. It ultimately burned away on Munjoy Hill, but not before making 10,000 people homeless and burning 1,800 buildings. Thankfully, only two people were killed in the fire.

7. The February Nor'easter (1969)

The disastrous part of this storm was how underestimated it was. Originally predicted to be only a chance of snow, the storm dumped the heaviest snowfall amounts in Maine. The Bangor areas saw more than 42 inches of snow and Lewiston received over 32 inches.

Let's end this on a happy note, shall we? Here are some wonderful reasons to love living in Maine.