CONTACT: Vanessa Corson
CELL PHONE: (207) 592-6201
EMAIL: vanessa.corson@maine.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Urges Caution For Spring Snowstorm
AUGUSTA, MAINE — Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) reminds folks that winter conditions are not over yet! The National Weather Service offices in Gray and Caribou report a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for all of Hancock, Penobscot, Waldo, and Piscataquis counties, as well as central and northern Washington and southern and northeastern Aroostook counties. If traveling tonight, expect conditions to rapidly deteriorate as a band of heavy snow moves from west to east through the state leading to slushy roads through the Thursday morning commute. Strong winds behind this storm are possible, leading to potential brief periods of localized whiteout conditions through the morning commute, and blowing and drifting snow that could last later into Friday morning.
“While Spring is here, we urge folks to remain vigilant when traveling,” said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. “Conditions can be unpredictable this time of year, changing quickly from one kind of precipitation to another. We urge motorists to use caution and good judgement, move over for emergency vehicles, and give plow trucks enough space.”
Remember to update the emergency kit in your vehicle in case you become stranded and be sure to let someone know where you will be traveling and when you expect to arrive at your destination. If you must travel during the storm, please consider the following:
- Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area such as a garage to avoid Carbon Monoxide poisoning
- Make sure tires are properly inflated and in good condition
- Check windshield wiper fluid
- Ensure the vehicle is clear of all ice and snow
- Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid the gas line freezing up or running out of gas and becoming stranded
- Bring a fully charged cell phone with roadside assistance numbers programmed in your contacts
- If you become stranded in your vehicle, stay with the vehicle, and tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or use other distress signals
- Run the engine and heater just long enough to remove chill to conserve gas
Mainers are reminded to ensure that alternate heat and power sources are in proper working condition and properly installed. Those who use heat pumps should clear snow drifts away from outdoor units but do not need to worry about snow and ice accumulating on them; heat pumps automatically defrost.
Scattered power outages are possible with this storm system. 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.
The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) is monitoring the storm and prepared to assist the county emergency management agencies with any storm-related issues. For additional preparedness and safety information, find MEMA on Facebook and X or visit www.Maine.gov/MEMA.