State of Maine
Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management
Maine Emergency Management Agency
DATE: Friday, May 30, 2025
CONTACT: Vanessa Sperrey
CELL PHONE: (207) 592-6201
EMAIL: vanessa.sperrey@maine.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUGUSTA, MAINE — June 1 marks the beginning of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which extends through November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) outlook for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season predicts a range of 13 to 19 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 6-10 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3-5 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA has a 70% confidence in these ranges.
The last major hurricane to impact Maine was Hurricane Bob in 1991. However, many Mainers remember Hurricane Lee, which approached the state in September 2023. The inland flooding, strong winds, and storm surges that hurricanes can bring would hit the same communities already affected by the severe disasters of December 2023 and January 2024.
Maine is likely to continue experiencing extreme rainfall events, similar to those seen in recent years, which pose significant flood risks across the state. In hilly and mountainous regions, tropical rainfall can trigger devastating flash floods. Historically, flash flooding has been the most destructive and deadliest aspect of landfalling tropical cyclones.
"Strong winds can severely impact the power grid, causing extensive tree damage and resulting in widespread effects on buildings, vehicles, and powerlines," said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. "Mainers should prepare well in advance for the possibility of prolonged power outages due to tropical storms."
Coastal areas, lake marinas, and private docks are particularly vulnerable to pounding surf, high winds, and storm surges, which can cause extensive damage. With peak hurricane season coinciding with New England's busy summer tourist season, thousands of boats on Maine's waters face heightened risks.
To prepare for a hurricane, you should take the following measures:
- Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
- Know your surroundings - especially if you are traveling in unfamiliar territory.
- Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood prone. This will help you know how your property will be affected when storm surge or tidal flooding are forecasted.
- Identify levees and dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard to you.
- Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground. Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate.
- Make plans to secure your property:
- If you live in a high-risk area, cover your home’s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with custom cut-to-fit plywood. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
- Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
- Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
- Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage, it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.
- Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans, and anything else that is not tied down. Secure play structures and trampolines.
- Determine how and where to secure your boat.
- Have a generator for emergencies and learn how to operate it safely.
For more information about hurricanes, safety tips, and preparedness information, visit MEMA on Facebook, X and Nextdoor or go to our website.
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