Emergency Management News - Maine

AUGUSTA, MAINE - Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), partner agencies, and utility companies are coordinating preparedness efforts in advance of this evening's winter storm. The National Weather Service offices in Gray and Caribou report a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late tonight through Wednesday afternoon in sections of Oxford, Franklin, Somerset, Androscoggin, Kennebec, Waldo, Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox, and Cumberland Counties with total snow accumulation ranging from 6 - 12 inches. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 5 AM Tuesday through noon Wednesday in portions of York and Cumberland Counties with 6 12 inches of heavy, wet snow expected and wind gusts of up to 60 mph, especially along the coast. Northern Maine will experience the least amount of impact with 1 3 inches of snow in the forecast.

"We are working with our partners to prepare for this storm and will monitor through the evening and into tomorrow and Wednesday," said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. "As always, our priority is keeping citizens safe, and we urge folks to travel only if necessary."

Citizens are encouraged to stay tuned to alerts and warnings through the media or by downloading the free FEMA app on their smart phone, which provides targeted preparedness information, alerts, and warnings for specific areas.

Motorists are reminded to please give plow trucks plenty of room on the roads. Remember to update theemergency kitin 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

Folks using oil heat or propane are encouraged to monitor levels closely and if they are expecting deliveries, be sure to clear a path to allow easy access for the delivery driver. 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. For more information on heat pumps visit Effciency Maine's website. For further tips or resources on heating during the winter months, visit the Governor's Energy Office's Winter Heating Guide.

Scattered power outages are possible with this storm system. Warming and Charging Centers operated by local municipalities could open in communities across Maine. Please visit MEMA's website to find a location near you. 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 please log on to www.MainePrepares.com or visit MEMA on Facebook or Twitter.

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AUGUSTA, MAINE -The State's River Flow Advisory Commission met virtually on Thursday, March 2 to discuss winter weather, snowpack, river ice, and hydrologic conditions in preparation for Spring.

The National Weather Service reports winter conditions this season have been mild to moderate compared to normal with below normal snowpack, coupled with well above normal temperatures across the state. Most of the state has experienced below normal snowfall except northern Maine where it is running slightly above normal, although snow is catching up quickly this week due to multiple storms.

"Overall, we have less river ice than we normally would this time of year," said Nicholas Stasulis, Data Section Chief at the U.S. Geological Survey, and co-chair of the River Flow Advisory Commission. "This is due to above normal streamflow in the fall and early winter and above average temperatures in January."

The US Coast Guard noted it has been a light ice season. There are four Maine-based icebreakers fully operational and ready to respond to ice jams. The Coast Guard will continue making regular icebreaking trips through the rest of the season, which ends March 31, 2023, to stay ahead of ice formation and to keep the rivers moving.

Since the early February snowpack survey, the snowpack has increased over much of the state with the largest increases in Aroostook County and small losses in areas along the coast. For this time of year, the water content is normal over much of the state, but slightly above normal in Aroostook County and slightly below normal in areas of northwestern and coastal Maine.

According to Sue Baker, State Coordinator of the Floodplain Management Program, Maine is underinsured when it comes to flood insurance. It is anticipated that FEMA will set the Letter of Final Determination in December 2023 for the updated flood maps in York and Cumberland counties, which will make them effective in June 2024.

Maine's River Flow Advisory Commission consists of members from the US Geological Survey, Department of Environmental Protection, the National Weather Service in Gray and Caribou, the US Coast Guard, University of Maine, Maine Emergency Management Agency, Maine Geological Survey, and the Dept. of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry/Floodplain Management Program. The Commission was originally formed after the spring floods of 1983 to improve the exchange of hydrologic information collected by the members, to review the data, and to provide information to emergency action agencies and the public. It was created in statute by the Legislature in 1997.

The River Flow Advisory Commission is not expected to meet again unless conditions warrant.The report will be available online at www.maine.gov/mema or can be obtained from MEMA by calling 207-624-4400.

February 9, 2023 - Governor’s Energy Office

The Governor's Energy Office (GEO) will hold a public hearing to review the program objectives, metrics, and criteria for the Grid Resilience Formula Fund Program. The Program, established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (Section 40101d), is aimed at improving the resilience of the electric grid against disruptive events.

The meeting will take place on Zoom. Register using this link: https://mainestate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tWA5fCG9R2OGDVjTPBStlw#/registration

About the Program: Maine is scheduled to receive close to $2.2 million each year for five years through this program. The GEO will be applying for the combined 2022-2023 allocation of approximately $4.4 million and anticipates standing up a competitive solicitation process upon receiving the formula allocation from the U.S. Department of Energy. For more information, visit: https://www.maine.gov/energy/initiatives/infrastructure/gridresilience

Accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities. Auxiliary aids will be provided upon advance request, please contact Allie Rand at allie.rand@maine.gov.

February 8, 2023 - Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry

The meeting agenda summarizes the administrative, planning, permitting and compliance matters that the Commission is scheduled to hear. The agenda is posted approximately one week prior to the meeting date. A record of the meeting, which includes audio files of Commission discussions and slide shows of staff presentations, is usually posted within two weeks of the meeting date. Meeting minutes, summarizing the outcomes of and Commission actions on scheduled items, are posted approximately six weeks after the meeting date.

AUGUSTA, MAINE - Maine is forecast to experience a level of extreme cold temperatures that only occurs about once every decade. The National Weather Service (NWS) Offices in Gray and Caribou report wind chills are expected to remain well below zero across the state for at least 48 hours beginning Friday morning. The potential exists for wind chills below -35F along the coast and below -45F in the foothills and mountains. High temperatures Saturday will remain below 0F in the mountains and in the single digits along the coast. River freeze-up jams are possible this weekend.

"Temperatures this weekend will be extremely - and dangerously - cold across the state," said Governor Janet Mills. "Please take extra precautions, be careful if you go outside, and be sure to check on your family, friends, and neighbors to make sure they are okay. MEMA will be working closely with county emergency agencies and local partners to support warming centers." The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes preventing hypothermia and frostbite. Both can be avoided by wearing layered clothing, gloves, hats, and proper footwear to reduce skin exposure. This is an important precaution to take, even if only outside briefly. If you suspect you might have hypothermia or frostbite, rewarm yourself slowly and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

"We have yet to experience true Arctic air this entire season," said Sarah Jamison, Senior Service Hydrologist at NWS Gray. "This will be a dramatic shift from our mild winter so far, and frozen pipes could be an issue."

To prevent water pipes from freezing:

• If there are water supply lines in the garage, keep the garage doors closed.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if your sink is on an exterior wall.
• Leave your thermostat set to the same temperature during day and night - A cold snap is not the time to set back the thermostat at night to save a few bucks on your heating bill.
• If you plan to be away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home and set to a temperature no lower than 55F.

For the long-term solutions, add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces to maintain higher temperatures in those areas. To prevent drafts, be sure to seal cracks and openings around windows and doors.

If your pipes do freeze, you can safely thaw them by:

• Turning on the faucet because running water through the pipe, as cold as it is, will help melt any ice in the pipe.
• Applying heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or a portable space heater that's kept away from flammable materials. Do NOT use a blowtorch, a kerosene or propane heater, a charcoal stove, or any device with an open flame because high heat can damage the pipes or even start a fire.

Make sure to apply heat until full water pressure is restored. Check all other faucets in your home to see whether you have additional frozen pipes because if one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too. If you are unable to locate the frozen area or if you cannot thaw the pipe yourself, call a licensed plumber.

Additional tips to stay safe during extremely cold weather:

• Avoid prolonged outdoor activities.
• In the event you become stranded in your car, your emergency car kit should have blankets, a first aid kit, food and water, a cellphone charger, and a flashlight with extra batteries.
• Prepare for power outages. If using a portable generator, always operate it outdoors and away from any open window. Ensure you have working smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors.
• Do safety checks on your elderly neighbors and those who are ill.
• Individuals with medical or life support devices should have extra batteries for medical equipment and assistive devices. Notify your utility company, local fire or police department if you need assistance.
• Do not leave your pet outside for extended periods of time. Provide shelter for livestock and be sure their water supply is not frozen.

For further tips or resources on heating during the winter months, visit the Governor's Energy Office's Winter Heating Guide.

Warming and Charging Centers operated by local municipalities could open in communities across Maine. Visit MEMA's website to find a location near you. 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 media or by downloading the free FEMA app on their smart phone, which provides targeted preparedness information, alerts and warnings for specific areas. For more information on preparedness please visit MEMA on Facebook or Twitter.

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AUGUSTA, MAINE - A quick moving storm is set to hit Maine late Wednesday evening into Thursday. The wintery mix of snow, rain, freezing rain, and ice will move south to north with higher snow totals expected to the north and west. The National Weather Service Offices in Gray and Caribou report coastal Maine will see wet, heavy snow and winds gusting upwards of 50+ mph, specifically in Hancock and Washington Counties where power outages could be an issue. Temperatures will plummet Thursday evening into the single digits Friday morning causing refreeze.

Motorists should plan for extra travel time during both the Thursday morning and evening commutes as road conditions may be hazardous with reduced visibility at times. Travel conditions in northern Maine could be challenging Friday morning as well.

If you observe a downed power line, report it to your utility company. Citizens are reminded to never touch a downed power line or a tree in contact with a downed line. Motorists should slow down or change lanes, if possible, when approaching utility crews working on roadways.

"We are monitoring the third significant storm this month," said MEMA Director Peter Rogers. "Due to the mixed precipitation, we anticipate unsafe driving conditions, and we also urge folks to be cautious while shoveling out from the storm."

When removing snow, remember to take the following precautions to prevent injury:

• Push snow instead of lifting it, pushing small amounts at a time
• Bend your knees to lift with your legs, not your back
• Avoid power lines when removing snow from rooftops
• Those with heart trouble should consult a doctor to make sure it is safe to shovel
• Avoid shoveling immediately after eating or while smoking
• Pace yourself - shoveling can raise your heart rate and blood pressure
• If you can, shovel soon after the storm when the snow is fresh and powdery
• Dress warmly and limit exposure to your nose, ears, hands, and feet
• Take frequent breaks
• If you feel tightness in your chest, stop immediately

Snow blower safety:

• If the blower jams, turn it off
• Keep your hands away from the moving parts
• Avoid using the snow blower while consuming alcohol
• Avoid running a snow blower in an enclosed space to prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning
• Never refuel while the snow blower is running

Folks who use oil heat or propane are encouraged to monitor levels closely and if they are expecting deliveries, be sure to clear a path to allow easy access for the delivery driver. Mainers are reminded to ensure that alternate heat and power sources are in proper working condition and proper installed.

After power and other utilities have been restored, you might face the issue of what to do with storm-damaged trees. Maine Forest Service offers tips and helpful guidance for those faced with questions about what to do with downed trees, limbs, and branches.

For further tips or resources on heating during the winter months, visit the Governor's Energy Office's Winter Heating Guide.

Warming and Charging Centers operated by local municipalities could open in communities across Maine. Please visit MEMA's website to find a location near you. 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 media or by downloading the free FEMA app on their smart phone, which provides targeted preparedness information, alerts and warnings for specific areas. For more information on preparedness please visit MEMA on Facebook or Twitter.

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AUGUSTA, MAINE - Maine will see its first significant snowfall of the year as several inches of snow is forecast across much of the state beginning late Thursday evening with light snowfall lasting into Friday night. Motorists should plan for extra travel time during both the Friday morning and evening commutes as road conditions could be slippery.

"We have watched the storm progress throughout the week, and we have spoken with our partners from the National Weather Service and Maine Department of Transportation," said MEMA Director Peter Rogers. "Although the storm is expected to be a primarily a snow event, the morning and evening commutes could be slick. Please use caution and also leave enough space on the road for snow plows and emergency first responders."

Mainers are encouraged to stay tuned to alerts and warnings through media or by downloading the free FEMA app on their smart phone, which provides targeted preparedness information, alerts and warnings for specific areas.

If you plan to travel during the storm, tell someone where you are going and when you anticipate arriving at your destination. Your emergency car kit should have the following supplies:

• Flashlight with new batteries
• First aid kit
• Ice scraper
• Snow shovel
• Bag of kitty litter - if you become stuck this will help with traction
• Jumper cables - know how to use them properly before attempting to use them
• Water
• Blanket
• Cellphone charger
• Reflective triangles, a flare, or bright garment to signal needing help
• Tool kit
• Waterproof matches

If alternative power or heat sources are needed during the storm, residents are reminded to ensure the equipment is in proper working condition, properly installed, and that you follow the manufacturer's guidelines. For more information on being prepared please visit MEMA on Facebook or Twitter.

For further tips or resources on heating during the winter months, visit the Governor's Energy Office's Winter Heating Guide.

Warming and Charging Centers operated by local municipalities could open in communities across Maine. Please visit MEMA's website to find a location near you. You may also dial 2-1-1 or visit their website for a list of locations.

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The State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) announces that the 2022 Tier 2 Submit software has been released by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. This software allows facilities with reportable quantities of hazardous materials to document and submit their reports electronically, through e-mail or on a CD, as required by the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act (EPCRA).

This law is a requirement for facilities with 10,000 pounds of a hazardous material or 500 pounds or less of an Extremely Hazardous Substance based on the chemical's Threshold Planning Quantity. This information is used by local first responders to assist them in identifying where there are chemical risks in their community and LEPC's in developing regional response plans. To access this free software please go to the following link:

https://www.epa.gov/epcra/tier2-submit-software#download

For more information on reporting or assistance in completing your reporting please contact you County EMA office or call the Maine Emergency Management Agency at 1-800-452-8735 or e-mail .

The State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) held their regular meeting January 10th, 2023.

Meeting minutes are linked below.

The SERC meets quarterly and all meetings are open to members of the public. If you plan to attend a meeting, please contact MEMA at least 24 hours in advance to confirm the meeting will take place as scheduled. If you have any questions or would like to attend a meeting, please call (207) 624-4400.

The State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) held their regular meeting October 27th, 2022.

Meeting minutes are linked below.

The SERC meets quarterly and all meetings are open to members of the public. If you plan to attend a meeting, please contact MEMA at least 24 hours in advance to confirm the meeting will take place as scheduled. If you have any questions or would like to attend a meeting, please call (207) 624-4400.

AUGUSTA, MAINE - Governor Janet Mills and the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) are urging Maine people to prepare for rain, high winds, coastal flooding, and freezing temperatures ahead of the major incoming winter storm.

MEMA is coordinating preparedness efforts with County Emergency Management Agencies, State partners, and utility companies ahead of the storm, which will impact holiday travel.

The National Weather Service reports that beginning late Thursday, heavy rain and snow melt in western Maine will lead to potential widespread flooding with numerous road closures possible. Precipitation will begin as snow in the mountains before changing to rain late Friday morning. Snowmelt south of the mountains will lead to widespread minor flooding during the day on Friday with potential river flooding lasting into the weekend. Erosion is possible along the coast with potential damage to roads on exposed low-lying shorelines. High winds with gusts of up to 60 mph could damage trees, power lines, and property. Widespread power outages are likely. Temperatures will drop sharply Friday night into Saturday morning, making for unsafe driving conditions on Saturday due to flash freeze along roadways.

"We are strongly urging all Maine people to prepare for this major storm," said Governor Janet Mills. "Please take every precaution to protect yourself, exercise caution when traveling, and check on your family, friends, and neighbors. We want to ensure that all Maine people stay safe during this holiday weekend."

"Now is the time to prepare for this major storm," said MEMA Director Peter Rogers. "Many folks will be traveling for the holidays in the next few days so plan ahead and be safe. We all need to be prepared for the possibility of a multi-day response."

Maine people are encouraged to stay tuned to alerts and warnings through media or by downloading the free FEMA app on their smart phone, which provides targeted preparedness information, alerts and warnings for specific areas.

With strong winds also in the forecast, Maine people should remove objects in their yard that could become airborne, such as holiday decorations, shovels, and garbage cans on decks and porches. If you observe a downed power line, report it to your utility company. Citizens are reminded to never touch a downed power line or a tree in contact with a downed line. Motorists should slow down or change lanes when approaching utility crews working on roadways.

Warming Centers are opening in several Maine counties. Please visit MEMA's website to find a location near you: www.maine.gov/mema/response-recovery/mass-care. You may also dial 2-1-1 or visit their website for a list of all locations.

Be sure that alternate heat and power sources are in proper working condition, properly installed, and that you follow the manufacturer's guidelines. If you are using a portable space heater, please keep the following safety tips in mind:

• Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from portable heating devices.
• Only buy heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Check to make sure the portable heater has a thermostat control mechanism and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.
• Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene in kerosene heaters. Never overfill it. Use the heater in a well-ventilated room away from curtains and other flammable items.

For further tips or resources on heating during the winter months, vist the Winter Heating Guide produced by the Governor's Energy Office.

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AUGUSTA, MAINE - The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) staff, partner agencies, and utility companies are coordinating preparedness efforts in advance of the incoming snowstorm. The National Weather Service forecasts a significant winter storm to bring snow and rain to our state beginning late tonight and continuing into Saturday, though the northeastern portion of the state may get snow into Sunday and beyond. Mostly rain is expected along the immediate coast, but will mix with snow at times, especially later Friday night. There will be a sharp rain/snow line just inland from the coast with all snow expected north of the I-95 corridor. The potential exists for over 12-inches of snow in the foothills and mountains. Also, winds will increase Friday afternoon and overnight with maximum gusts around 45 mph on the coast and 30 mph inland. No significant coastal flooding is expected, with some minor splash over possible early Friday morning.

"We are watching this storm closely as it continues to develop and checking in regularly with key partners so that we are prepared," said MEMA Director Peter Rogers. "The Friday commute looks messy, so we urge citizens to plan accordingly - if you can stay off the roads, please do, if you do need to drive, please do so carefully and give yourself extra time to get to your destination."

Power outages are possible due to heavy snow sticking to weak tree limbs and power lines, with the biggest area of concern north of Sanford through Fryeburg pushing through Lewiston-Auburn.

If you observe a downed power line, report it to your utility company. Citizens are reminded to never touch a downed power line or a tree in contact with a downed line. Motorists should slow down or change lanes when approaching utility crews working on roadways.

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 3 days-worth of nonperishable food and water for each household member and pets.
• If the power goes out keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.

Citizens using alternative heat and power sources are reminded to follow the manufacturer's guidelines. If using a generator, never run it in an enclosed area and be sure it is properly installed at least 15 feet away from the home in a well-ventilated area. Make sure carbon monoxide alarms are properly working, especially if using alternative heating sources. Be sure to charge cellphones and check the batteries in flashlights.

Check your outdoor vents and remove accumulating snow to prevent blockage. Be careful not to bang on vents, as this can damage them. Instead, simply scrape snow away with a shovel and your hands. Also, shovel at least two exits at your residence and keep them clear.

If you need heating resources or assistance, the Governor's Energy Office has prepared a Winter Heating Guide to help Maine people stay warm this winter. If you need help with heating assistance or have additional questions you dial 2-1-1- or log on to www.211Maine.org. For more preparedness and safety information please visit www.MainePrepares.com or visit MEMA on Facebook or Twitter.

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