Storm Knocks Out Power To Tens Of Thousands Across Maine

A powerful storm swept across Maine on Tuesday, bringing with it high winds and heavy rain that left tens of thousands of people without power. The storm knocked down trees and power lines, causing widespread outages. The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning for the entire state, and the Maine Emergency Management Agency activated its Emergency Operations Center.

Winds Up To 70 MPH

The storm brought with it winds of up to 70 mph, which were strong enough to knock down trees and power lines. The National Weather Service reported that the highest wind gust recorded in Maine was 71 mph, which was recorded in Portland. The strong winds also caused damage to buildings and vehicles.

Tens Of Thousands Without Power

The storm left tens of thousands of people without power. As of Wednesday morning, more than 100,000 customers were without power, according to Central Maine Power. The outages were widespread, with some areas of the state being completely without power. CMP crews were working to restore power, but it was expected to take several days for all customers to be back online.

State Of Emergency

Governor Janet Mills declared a state of emergency on Tuesday in response to the storm. The declaration allows the state to mobilize resources to help with the recovery effort. The state has also activated its Emergency Operations Center, which is coordinating the response to the storm.

Damage To Buildings

The storm also caused damage to buildings. The high winds blew off roofs and siding, and caused windows to shatter. The Maine Emergency Management Agency reported that there were no major structural collapses, but there was significant damage to some buildings.

Road Closures

The storm also caused road closures. The Maine Department of Transportation reported that several roads were closed due to downed trees and power lines. The department was working to clear the roads, but it was expected to take some time.

Schools Closed

The storm also caused schools to close. Many schools in Maine were closed on Tuesday and Wednesday due to the power outages. The schools were expected to reopen on Thursday, but some schools may remain closed if the power is not restored.

Power Outages Can Be Dangerous

Power outages can be dangerous, especially in cold weather. The Maine Emergency Management Agency is urging people to take precautions to stay safe during the power outage. The agency recommends that people have a battery-powered radio and flashlights, and that they keep their cell phones charged. People should also avoid using candles, as they can be a fire hazard.

Conclusion

The storm that swept across Maine on Tuesday was a powerful and destructive event. The storm left tens of thousands of people without power, caused damage to buildings, and closed roads and schools. The state has declared a state of emergency and activated its Emergency Operations Center to help with the recovery effort. People should take precautions to stay safe during the power outage.