Changes in Watch/Warning Areas for Hurricane Earl

September 3, 2010

1:00 PM

Concerns for high surf and rip currents continue

The National Hurricane Center and local National Weather Service Forecase Offices have changed the areas of Maine covered by Tropical Storm Watches and Warnings for areas of Maine. The track of Hurricane Earl and changes in intensity have resulted in watches being lifted in some areas.

Tropical Storm Warnings:

Coastal Hancock and Washington Counties
Coastal Waters from Stonington Maine to Eastport Maine, out 25 nautical miles
Coastal water from Stonington to Port Clyde out 25 nm
Penobscot Bay
Port Clyde to Cape Elizabeth out 25 nm
Cape Elizabeth Maine to Merrimack River, Mass. out 25 nm

Boat owners and captains of small craft should rush to completion the securing of their crafts.

Tropical Storm Watches remain in place for:

Central Washington County
Coastal Cumberland, Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox and Coastal Waldo Counties (NOTE: the Watch for Coastal York County has been lifted)
Waters of Casco Bay

Everyone in Watch and Warning areas should monitor weather forecasts closely, as conditions may change as the storm approaches and passes by.

Possibility of Inland Flooding

In the Gray Forecast area (York through Waldo), 1 to 2 inches of rain is expected, with pockets of 3 inches. No flooding problems are expected.

In Washington and Hancock Counties, 1 to 3 inches of rain are expected, with locally higher amounts. Localized flooding is possible in low-lying areas, and if bands of heavy rain develop, more serious flooding possible.

High surf and rip currents remain a serious threat to safety along the coast.

Everyone should respect access restrictions at shoreline and beach locations.

A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm force winds (39 to 73 mph) are expected in the Warning areas within 24 hours.

A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm force winds (39 to 73 mph) are possible along the coast within 36 hours.

Heavy rains may also accompany tropical systems; localized flooding is often a possibility.

The National Weather Service Forecast offices in Gray and Caribou will be issuing additional forecasts as Hurricane Earl approaches. You can monitor this important information, as well as learn about preparedness and safety precautions, at:

http://www.maineprepares.com

Although the storm has weakened somewhat, it still poses serious dangers for many parts of Maine. Maine Emergency Management Agency recommends:

Stay informed as the storm approaches. Even a slight variation in the track of the storm could make a big difference in the effects on Maine.
Make preparations at your home or business if you are in a threatened area.
Store or tie down any lawn furniture or other outdoor items that could blow away
If you might be isolated in your home, check on the supplies you might need to ride out the storm, including special medical items and supplies for children and pets
If you think you might need to leave your home, fill your car with gasoline, and withdraw a small amount of emergency cash from your bank or ATM. Also, make a "go-kit" of essential supplies you would need if you had to leave
Respect all official instructions, evacuation recommendations or restrictions of roads or coastal areas
Respect the power of the high surf. Large crashing waves and rip currents can be deadly. Stay well away from areas that have been closed by local officials.
If you lose power, remember that emergency generators should ONLY be used outdoors, away from living areas or even attached garages. Carbon monoxide kills.
Once you are all set, check on a neighbor, friend or relative who might need extra help

Most important, again, is to stay informed. Stay tuned to news broadcasts, or listen to your NOAA Weather Radio to be sure of current forecasts, and how the storm will affect your area.

For more preparedness and safety information, the latest weather forecasts, and links to the latest advisories and tracks for Hurricane Earl, visit MainePrepares.com.

Contact:

MEMA
624-4400

MAINE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY