MEMA Director Advises Maine Residents About Hurricane Season Preparedness

State of Maine
Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management
Maine Emergency Management Agency

CONTACT: Vanessa Corson
CELL PHONE: (207) 592-6201
EMAIL: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AUGUSTA, ME - As we move through the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, I encourage every Mainer to take time now to prepare for the possibility of tropical weather impacting our state. Hurricane season runs through November 30, with activity typically increasing from August through October. While Maine is not affected as often as states further south, our state has experienced hurricanes and tropical storms that have caused widespread power outages, flooding, coastal damage, and significant impacts to communities well inland. It only takes one storm to have lasting consequences.

Earlier this year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasted a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season, expecting three to six hurricanes, including one to three major hurricanes. While that outlook is encouraging, seasonal forecasts cannot predict where storms will track or make landfall. Every Mainer should be prepared regardless of the seasonal outlook.

Now is the time to review your emergency plans and ensure your family is ready before a storm threatens.

I encourage you to:

• Build or refresh an emergency kit with enough food, water, medications, and supplies for everyone in your household, including pets, for at least 3 days, though 7 days is recommended.
• Review your family emergency communications plan so everyone knows how to contact one another and where to meet if separated.
• Know your local evacuation routes if you live in a flood-prone or coastal area and always follow directions from local emergency officials if an evacuation is ordered.
• Prepare your home by trimming dead tree limbs, securing outdoor furniture and propane tanks, cleaning gutters, and addressing any maintenance issues that could become hazards during high winds or heavy rain.
• Review your insurance coverage before a storm is in the forecast. Remember that flood damage is generally not covered by standard homeowners insurance.

If a hurricane or tropical storm approaches Maine, stay informed through multiple trusted sources, including the National Weather Service, NOAA's National Hurricane Center, local media, and official updates from the Maine Emergency Management Agency and your local emergency management office.

Should a storm impact your community, remember that dangers often continue after the weather has passed. Never drive through flooded roadways, stay away from downed power lines, and never operate a generator inside your home, garage, or near windows. Wait until local officials say it is safe before returning to evacuated areas.

Preparedness is one of the most effective ways to protect your family, your property, and your community. Taking a few simple steps today can make a significant difference if severe weather threatens tomorrow. Be safe and be well!

Pete Rogers
Director
Maine Emergency Management Agency

For other safety and preparedness information, visit MEMA's website or find us on Facebook, X, Bluesky, and Nextdoor.

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