AUGUSTA, Maine — Central Maine Power on Tuesday warned customers that high winds and driving rain predicted over the Christmas holidays could result in power outages.
The company recommends customers prepare for the third major storm this month by checking their emergency supplies of batteries, flashlights, phone chargers, non-perishable food and generator fuel.
NEWS CENTER Maine is predicting high winds from Christmas Eve through Christmas Day night for most of the state.
"We have been watching and planning for this storm for several days and are letting all of our own employees know that they will likely be called in to work over the holiday,” David Flanagan, executive Board chair of CMP, said in a statement. "We know that customers may be distracted by last-minute holiday preparations and we want to be sure they consider the possibility that power may be impacted as they get ready.”
Versant power based in Central, Eastern and Northern Maine is also bracing for the storm.
As we prepare our crews for a storm beginning Christmas Eve, we encourage the public to prepare for the possibility of power outages as well as difficult travel conditions," said Allison Doughty, Versant Power storm manager. "With such strong winds in the forecast, it is possible that conditions will be unsafe for our line crews, which may delay restoration times."
Versant Power says it plans to have crews prepared on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to address any public safety issues, assess damage and begin restoration efforts.
Already this month, a Dec. 5 Nor'easter left 231,000 CMP customers in the dark -- some for as long as four days..
CMP has been coordinating with local emergency management officials in preparation for the storm.
In the event of a power outage, CMP says to stay away from downed lines, turn off or unplug major appliances and sensitive electronics, and never use range or indoor stoves to heat your home.
Anyone who needs shelter or food can call 211 for assistance.
Customers may report and monitor outages online at www.cmpco.com or by calling 800-696-1000.