Contact: Vanessa Corson
Cell: (207) 592-6201
Email: vanessa.corson@maine.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Urges Preparedness Ahead Of The Upcoming Storm
AUGUSTA, MAINE — This week Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has been monitoring the forecast ahead of a storm system that moves into Maine this evening into Sunday. Numerous watches and warnings are posted throughout the state with some of the biggest concerns being coastal surge during high tide late Sunday morning and localized flooding in already saturated locations to include low-level river flooding. The National Weather Service in Gray and Caribou report flooding is possible in low-lying, vulnerable areas near the coast with 1 to 2 feet of inundation. Strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surge may cause some coastal roads to become flooded with a few neighborhoods possibly being cut-off due to closed roads. Heavy snow in the mountains and foothills will cause hazardous driving conditions. High winds may lead to downed trees and power outages.
“With the likeliness of some coastal flooding, motorists need to be alert and should never drive through flood waters,” said MEMA Director Peter Rogers. “We encourage everyone to keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for sporadic power outages. If you use an alternate power source, make sure you do so safely.”
To prepare for a power outage:
- Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
- Charge cell phones and devices now.
- Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs, such as a portable charger or power bank.
- Have flashlights for every household member.
- Have enough nonperishable food and water for each household member and pets for at least 72 hours.
- Review your family communication plan with every household member.
If you use an alternate power source:
- Using portable gas-powered generators can quickly cause carbon monoxide (CN) poisoning when they are run in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. CO is a colorless, odorless gas formed when burning most types of fuels.
- Place your generator outdoors. Keep your generator 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.
- Follow the safety instructions for operating your portable generator.
- Do not use outdoor cooking devices indoors like gas or charcoal grills and gas camp stoves.
- Place a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector near each sleeping area in your home. Look for the Underwriters Laboratory "UL certification" marked with the "Station Carbon Monoxide Alarm" statement.
- Check CO detectors regularly to be sure they are functioning properly.
- Warning signs of CO poisoning are similar to flu symptoms that include headache, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion or altered mental status.
- If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, leave the house at once, call 9-1-1, and do not go back into the building until the fire department tells you it is safe.
Warming and Charging Centers operated by municipalities and local organizations may open in communities across Maine. Please visit MEMA’s website to find the nearest location: https://www.maine.gov/mema/response-recovery/mass-care. You may also dial 2-1-1 or visit their website for a list of locations.
Mainers are encouraged to stay tuned to alerts and warnings through trusted media sources or by downloading the free FEMA app on their smart phone, which provides targeted preparedness information, alerts and warnings for specific areas. For timely safety and preparedness information, find MEMA on Facebook or X or visit www.Maine.gov/MEMA.
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