CONTACT: Vanessa Corson
CELL PHONE: (207) 592-6201
EMAIL: vanessa.corson@maine.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Urges Awareness And Preparedness For Midweek Storm
AUGUSTA, MAINE — Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is coordinating with state partners and the major utility companies for the latest storm that will have statewide impact. The National Weather Service (NWS) offices in Caribou and Gray forecast rain will persist through Wednesday evening when strong winds develop and continue through Thursday. Power outages are possible, especially Wednesday night across coastal and Central Maine, and then on Thursday for interior locations. Temperatures will plummet quickly Wednesday night, causing a flash freeze with a quick change to snow likely. Warm temperatures and heavy rainfall will combine to make ice movement on southern rivers likely. This could cause potential ice jams, with a risk of flooding. A Flood Watch is in effect for Central and Western Maine and portions of Northern and Eastern Maine. A High Wind Warning is in effect for interior Washington, and coastal Hancock and Washington Counties for Wednesday night. A Wind Advisory is in effect for all parts of Maine from southern Aroostook County southward. A Storm Warning is in effect for marine areas.
“Travel conditions will be unfavorable late Wednesday evening and during the Thursday morning commute,” said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. “Folks need to pay attention to the forecast, have a plan, and be prepared during this storm as weather conditions deteriorate.”
To prepare for a power outage:
- Find Alternate Power Sources. Plan for batteries and alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member. Remember, never use a generator indoors.
- Appliances. Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges. Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Food Storage. Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. A refrigerator will keep food cold for four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. If you are in doubt, monitor temperatures with a thermometer and throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
- Know Your Medical Needs. If you rely on electricity for any medical needs, make a power outage plan for medical devices or refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
If alternative power or heat sources are needed during the storm, residents are reminded to ensure the equipment is in proper working condition, properly installed, and that you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Warming and Charging Centers operated by local municipalities and organizations could open in communities across Maine. Please visit MEMA’s website to find a list of locations: https://www.maine.gov/mema/response-recovery/mass-care. You may also dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211 for a list of locations, or contact your local town office, fire, or police department for local Warming Center information.
Mainers are encouraged to stay tuned to weather alerts and warnings through media or by downloading the free FEMA app on their smart phone, which provides targeted preparedness information, alerts and warnings for specific areas.
MEMA’s Emergency Operations Cetner will move to enhanced monitoring Wednesday evening with preparations for activation on Thursday for this storm and assisting the county emergency management agencies with any storm-related issues. For additional preparedness and safety information please log on to www.maine.gov/mema or visit us on Facebook or X (Twitter).
###