FLOOD OF MARCH 1968

The floods of March 1968 were not as dramatic as some earlier events in terms of the rainfall amounts, nor did it seriously impact the major mainstem rivers of the region. However, its impact in many ways was just as significant since its focus was on the heavily populated areas of eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. No lives were lost due to the flooding; however, damage estimates totalled about $37 million.

Two significant storms impacted southern New England in March 1968. The first was not major, but it did combine with some snowmelt to bring a rise into many of the rivers and streams in the region. The second storm occurred March 17-19 and delivered up to 7 inches of rain with the heaviest amounts occurring just south of Boston.

The Ipswich, Charles, and Taunton River basins among others recorded floods of record during this event.