Environment Canada says much of New Brunswick – and the Maritimes – has been exceptionally dry this month following a trend which began in mid-winter.

As of Thursday morning, data shows Moncton has recorded only 23 mm of rain and is trending towards its driest April since records began.

Saint John has received about 40 mm so far this month.

Meteorologist Jill Maepea says both cities have only picked up a fraction of the normal amount which is about 100 mm.

“However, there are still few days left in the month and we will need to watch this closely. But right now it is running very dry. ”

While conditions have prevented major flooding events this spring, Maepea adds there are long term concerns about agriculture and also the potential for wildfires.

“We are seeing a system moving in possibly late Sunday and then into next week so that will hopefully alleviate some of these dry conditions. But the month overall will still be considered very dry.”

Precipitation was also below normal in February and March for most of New Brunswick although it was much above normal in January.