Record rainfall soaks area

COEUR d'ALENE - A record 1.35 inches of rain fell in Coeur d'Alene Monday, erasing the 1955 high for Nov. 19 of 1.18 inches.

Add in Tuesday's .55 inches of rain by mid-afternoon, and you've got a two-day record of 1.90 for Nov. 19 and 20.

"We have a wet fall to go with the record wet spring," said climatologist Cliff Harris.

And we're not done yet.

It has rained 3.55 inches this month - already well above the normal November rainfall of 3.07. It has resulted in some clogged street drains, plenty of puddles and mud. Lots of mud.

A special on the Dust Bowl has been airing this week on public TV.

"Be glad you weren't living in those days," Harris said. "Now, we're in a mud bowl."

The year's rainfall total here has climbed to 35.85, closing in on the record of 38.77 set in 1996.

Harris said there's a good chance to break that mark. Showers are expected today and Thursday, and then again Sunday through Tuesday.

"We're not done yet," he said.

Harris said North Idahoans shouldn't bemoan the wet weather. Thirty-six of the lower 48 states are being affected by drought conditions, and 70 percent of the country, he said, "could cry for our water."

"We're fortunate here to have plenty of water," he said.