Caution and Preparedness Urged Ahead of Significant Snowfall

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]

AUGUSTA, MAINE - Mainers should prepare for a wintry mix of conditions today through Tuesday as significant snowfall is forecast across much of the state. The National Weather Service in Caribou reports bitterly cold temperatures will persist with highs near freezing today and snow developing tonight into Monday, making for hazardous travel conditions. Light to moderate snow accumulation will continue through Monday night before tapering to a chance of snow Tuesday morning and improving to partly sunny skies by Tuesday afternoon. Meanwhile, NWS Gray reports widespread snow late today into Monday, with additional light snow possible Monday night before a break in precipitation and cooler but calmer conditions Tuesday. Across much of the state, highs on Tuesday are expected to recover slightly with partly sunny skies after the weekend system exits, bringing a mix of colder temperatures and variable snow chances through the period. Monitor your local forecast.

"We do not anticipate widespread power outages. However, we urge residents to give clean-up crews the time they need and to wait until roads are cleared and safe before traveling," said MEMA Director Pete Rogers.

The Maine Department of Transportation (Maine DOT) reminds the public to give plow trucks plenty of room and to avoid crowding or passing working snowplows, especially during reduced visibility. The Department notes that its hundreds of snowfighters and statewide fleet of winter-maintenance equipment will be out in force throughout the storm to keep Maine's roads as safe and passable as conditions allow.

As you begin cleaning up from the storm, remember to take the following precautions to prevent injury when shoveling and removing snow:

• Push snow instead of lifting it
• Bend your knees to lift with your legs, not your back
• Avoid power lines when removing snow from rooftops
• Individuals over the age of 40, or those who are relatively inactive, should be especially careful
• 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
• Pick up small amounts at a time
• Dress warmly and limit exposure to your nose, ears, hands, and feet
• Take frequent breaks
• If you feel tightness in your chest, stop immediately. Stop before you reach the point of exhaustion

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

If alternative power or heat sources are needed, residents are reminded to ensure the equipment is in proper working condition, properly installed, and that you follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

The Maine Department of Energy Resources (DOER) also urges Mainers to check heating fuel levels, stock wood or pellets, keep heat pumps running even in extreme cold, and seal windows and doors. If you need help with heating programs and resources, dial 211 (or 866-811-5695) for information about local resources or call your local Community Action Agency. More tips are in DOER's Winter Heating Guide.

Warming centers operated by local municipalities and organizations could open in communities across Maine. Please visit MEMA's website to find a list of locations: https://www.maine.gov/mema/response-recovery/mass-care. You may also dial 211 (or 866-811-5695) or text your zip code to 898-211 for a list of locations, or contact your town office, fire, or police department for local warming center information.

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

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