MEMA Urges Watching Forecast Sunday and Preparing To Act

CONTACT: Vanessa Corson 

CELL PHONE: (207) 592-6201

EMAIL: vanessa.corson@maine.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Urges Everyone To Watch The Forecast Sunday And Be Prepared To Act
 

AUGUSTA, MAINE — Maine is forecast to see severe storms Sunday afternoon with the potential for all severe weather elements to include damaging winds, hail, flash flooding, and even the possibility of tornadoes along with wind gusts of 70+ mph. The National Weather Service offices in Gray and Caribou report the biggest emphasis is that heavy rainfall could result in localized flash flooding. Damage to structures is possible. Large signs, trees, and utility poles may be blown down. Power outages are likely where severe weather occurs.

“Residents and tourists are urged to pay attention to weather alerts,” said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. “Authorities may tell you to shelter in place if there’s a tornado or may tell you to evacuate if there’s flash flooding. Everyone needs to be ready to spring into action if necessary.”

Tornado preparedness:

  • Have a NOAA Weather Radio and monitor your local news or official social media accounts for up-to-date emergency information. Follow the instructions of state, local and tribal officials. 
  • Go to a safe shelter immediately, like a safe room, basement, storm cellar or a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
  • Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
  • If driving, do not go under an overpass or bridge. You’re safer in a low, flat location.
  • Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.
  • Use your arms to protect your head and neck.
  • If you can’t stay at home, make plans to go to a public shelter.
  • Prepare for sheltering in place by gathering emergency supplies, cleaning supplies, non-perishable foods, water, medical supplies and medication.

Flash flood preparedness:

  • If told to evacuate, do so immediately!

 

  • Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.

 

  • Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown! Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.

 

  • Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash out bridges without warning.

 

  • Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. If water is rising inside the car, get on the roof.

 

  • If trapped in a building or dwelling, get to the highest level. Only get on the roof if necessary and once there, signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.

 

For safety and preparedness information, visit MEMA’s website or find us on Facebook, X and Nextdoor.

 

###