State of Maine
Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management
Maine Emergency Management Agency
CONTACT: Vanessa Corson
CELL PHONE: (207) 592-6201
EMAIL: vanessa.corson@maine.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Urges Preparedness Ahead Of Spring Nor'easter
AUGUSTA, MAINE — Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is coordinating with state partners, county emergency management agencies, the utilities, and other stakeholders ahead of a storm system that’s expected to dump over a foot of snow in higher elevations. The National Weather Service offices in Gray and Caribou report a rain-snow mix will begin Wednesday evening then high winds of 30 – 50 mph and wet, heavy snow through Thursday will blanket trees and may cause power outages. Wind gusts up to 60 mph are possible along the immediate coast. Minor coastal flooding is possible with concern about York and Cumberland Counties during Thursday morning’s high tide.
“Travel is discouraged during this storm due to unfavorable driving conditions,” said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. “Folks need to be prepared at home for the possibility of an extended power outage with emergency supplies, alternate power sources, and should charge their mobile devices in advance.”
If you must travel during the storm, tell someone where you are going and when you anticipate arriving at your destination. Your emergency car kit should have a flashlight with new batters, first aid kit, ice scraper, snow shovel, jumper cables (know how to operate them properly before attempting to use them), water, blanket, cellphone charger, reflective triangles or bright garment to signal needing help, and tool kit.
Prepare for a power outage:
- Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
- Plan for batteries and other 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.
During a power outage:
- Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
- Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
- Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
- Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
- Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
After a power outage:
- When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture.
- If the power is out for more than a day, discard any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. Consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately for a new supply.
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. Power outages must be reported to your utility company. Please do not call 9-1-1 to report an outage.
Warming and Charging Centers operated by local municipalities and organizations could open in communities across Maine. Please visit MEMA’s website to find a location near you: https://www.maine.gov/mema/response-recovery/mass-care. You may also dial 211 (or 1-866-811-5695) or text your zip code to 898-211 for a list of locations, or contact your local town office, fire, or police department.
Mainers are encouraged to stay tuned to 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. Preparedness and safety information can be found on MEMA’s Facebook, X, and Nextdoor platforms, or visit www.Maine.gov/MEMA.