Since the beginning of this week’s severe storm, my Administration has been working around the clock, with local public officials, county emergency management people, and CMP and Versant to clear debris from the roads, assess and repair damage caused by flood waters, and restore power to Maine people as soon as possible.
Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills and thank you for listening.
I have declared a State of Civil Emergency for most Maine counties in order to mobilize all of the State of Maine’s resources to help with response and recovery efforts and to position the State of Maine to seek Federal disaster support in the coming weeks.
This declaration of civil emergency formalizes our all-hands-on-deck response and ensures that every State resource is available to towns across Maine.
I have also signed a proclamation that allows fuel delivery personnel to drive additional hours to make sure that heating fuel is delivered in a timely fashion.
Maine Emergency Management Agency is working with county emergency management officials to assess the damage to our infrastructure.
The Maine Department of Transportation is likewise working with the Federal Highway Administration to assess road damage.
Rest assured, we will seek any and all Federal assistance and support to help Maine people recover from this storm.
The Maine Department of Health and Human Services will be providing information about how SNAP recipients can replace the food that might be lost because of power outages, flooding, or other storm-related damage.
That Department has continued to issue WIC benefits for parents, and it is working with water districts to check on public drinking water systems and it is reaching out to all Long Term Care facilities to make sure residents and staff are safe.
As crews assess the damage and make repairs, Maine people can do their part by being vigilant and very cautious – please stay away from flooded areas, including roadways that have water on them, and heed the advice of your county emergency officials.
If you need emergency assistance, please dial 911. If you need non-emergency assistance, like information about where to find a warming center or charging center, call 211, or text your zip code to 898-211.
Look, Maine people are no strangers to hard times. We’ve been through a lot – from a pandemic, to a turbulent economy, to the horrific tragedy in Lewiston, and now, this devastating storm, which has already claimed the lives of several Maine people. It cannot be ignored that this storm came just days before Christmas, at a time that is supposed to be marked by love and joy and kindness.
For many Maine people right now, the holiday will be more difficult as they deal with the loss of their homes or vehicles or damage to their property. And if you’re in that situation this Christmas Eve, know that I am thinking of you, and that I will do everything I can to support you.
I hope that you do find comfort, and joy, and solace with family, friends, and loved ones this holiday, during a difficult time.
I know that in Maine, especially in the Lewiston area, the burdens we’re carrying feel heavy now, but we will carry that burden together.
I’m often reminded of our communal strength that we see in the acts of kindness, bravery, and compassion. First responders risking their own lives to rescue a stranded motorist; the community centers keeping their doors open to keep families warm and charge cell phones; and the linemen who come from all over who are doing their very best to bring the lights back on tonight – the unshakeable spirit and unbreakable strength of Maine people, the very best of our state.
We have challenging days ahead, but we will get through this. Please keep the faith and, please, stay safe.
This is Governor Janet Mills and thank you for listening.