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MEMA Home > Programs> Communication> News > Wintry Mess Expected: Stay Tuned and Stay Safe

Wintry Mess Expected: Stay Tuned and Stay Safe

 

December 10, 2008

3:30 PM

 

AUGUSTA, MAINE -- The Maine Emergency Management Agency urges Mainers to put safety uppermost as a mixed wintry mess of weather moves through the State over the next few days.

“The National Weather Service has advised us that a wintry mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain will affect Maine Thursday night into Friday,” MEMA Director Rob McAleer said. “It’s critical to stay tuned to weather forecasts for your area, because the storm effects will be different depending on where you are.”

Governor John Baldacci participated in a conference call earlier today with the National Weather Service, as they briefed MEMA, County Emergency Management Agencies, utilities and state response agencies on the expected conditions.

The NWS reported that the storm will affect the entire state, with different timing as it moves south to north Thursday evening through Friday evening. Three-quarters of an inch of freezing rain is possible along a band from Bangor north to Houlton, and points east and west. South of this band, conditions will likely be a mix of rain, freezing rain, sleet and snow. North of this band, more snow, with some sleet, is expected in the far north. Some coastal splashover is expected at the time of high tide on Friday.

“We’re told the track of the storm is still uncertain, but it’s clear that everyone will experience messy conditions during this event. In some areas icing could be serious. Emergency managers, road crews and power utilities statewide have put contingency plans together for the next few days. Individuals and families should too.” McAleer said.

Mainers are reminded to:

  • Monitor weather forecasts closely for expected conditions in your area
  • Use extreme care driving in icy conditions. Stay off the roads if possible.
  • Stay away from downed power lines; report outages and downed lines to your electric utility
  • If the power goes out, use generators and alternate heat sources safely. Never run a generator in a basement or attached garage. Carbon monoxide poisoning may result.
  • Check on neighbors, family and friends who may need special assistance

Important phone numbers and web sites:

  • Urgent emergency assistance: Dial 911
  • Report downed lines and power outages: Your electrical utility
  • Road conditions: Dial 511 or visit http://www.511maine.gov
  • Safety and preparedness information, and links to weather forecasts: http://www.maineprepares.com

 

 

Last update: 07/20/10