AUGUSTA, MAINE — The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is urging residents to stay informed and prepare for a significant winter storm expected to impact much of the state on Tuesday, December 2. According to the National Weather Service offices in Gray and Caribou, widespread snowfall is forecast to begin in western Maine late Tuesday morning before spreading northeast. The heaviest snowfall is expected Tuesday afternoon and evening, creating hazardous travel conditions. The storm is projected to taper off well before daybreak on Wednesday, though wind gusts of up to 30 mph may persist.
“As this storm approaches, we urge folks to take simple steps now to stay safe,” said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. “Check your emergency kits, stay off the roads once conditions deteriorate, and keep an eye on updates from local officials. A little preparation goes a long way in making sure you and your family weather the storm safely.”
MEMA reminds drivers to keep an emergency car kit on hand. A well-stocked kit should include, but is not limited to:
- Jumper cables
- Flares or a reflective triangle
- Ice scraper with brush
- Car cell phone charger
- Blanket
- Map
- Water and snacks
- Flashlight with fresh batteries
The Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) asks motorists to leave plenty of room for plow trucks, emergency vehicles, disabled vehicles, and utility crews working to restore power.
Residents using alternate heat or power sources should ensure equipment is properly installed, functioning correctly, and operated according to manufacturer guidelines. As a reminder, generators should always be placed outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows and doors. Do not put a generator in a closed or partly closed space, like a basement, cellar bulkhead, garage, or porch, even if doors and windows are open.
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.
MEMA encourages the public to stay tuned to weather alerts and warnings from trusted media sources or through smartphone weather apps that provide targeted notifications. For other safety and preparedness information, visit MEMA’s website or find us on Facebook, X, Bluesky, and Nextdoor.
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