CMP Responding to Major Ice Storm

350 crews are assessing damage and restoring power today 

Augusta, ME — March 24, 2024 —   CMP is responding to power outages after a significant ice storm impacted coastal customers from the New Hampshire border through Mid-Coast Maine.

Road and working conditions were incredibly dangerous on Saturday evening, and the company’s focus overnight was responding to emergency calls and making downed powerlines safe. As of daylight on Sunday, crews began assessing and clearing damage so they can commence widespread power restoration efforts. We anticipate a multi-day restoration effort in areas hardest hit by the storm. 

 

In every storm, CMP assists local emergency management agencies should road closures or coastal flooding occur. For safety reasons, CMP crews are prohibited from raising bucket trucks when windspeeds are greater than 30 mph.

 

“Damage to trees, poles, and wires was significant overnight on Saturday, and our assessors are taking stock of the damage today so we can begin restoring power to our customers as quickly and as safely as possible,”  said Jon Breed, spokesperson for Central Maine Power.  “Ahead of this storm, we pre-staged 150 line crews across our service area, and another 200 crews are arriving today to support teams already working.”

 

CMP received more than 250 requests from local Emergency Management Agencies (EMA) overnight Saturday. In every storm, CMP assists local EMAs to respond to emergencies and clear blocked roads.  

 

Customers can report outages quickly and easily, and track restoration times, using the CMP mobile app. Download from the App Store or text APP to 267.898 for a downloadable link. Customers may also enroll in Outage Alerts to stay informed in the event they lose power.

 

Customers may find storm preparation tips and a checklist on the CMP website. CMP reminds customers to remember the following if they have lost power:

  • Stay away from downed lines. No line is safe to touch.
  • Turn off or unplug major appliances and sensitive electronics.
  • Never use ranges or outdoor stoves to heat your home.
  • If you need shelter or food, reach out to 211 for available resources.

If you lose service

  • For fast outage reporting, use the CMP mobile app or visit Outage Central.
  • Keep sensitive electronic appliances such as computers, TVs and stereos plugged into a surge protector, or unplug them. They could be damaged if a power surge occurs when electricity is restored.
  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. For information about food safety, visit http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/refridg_food.html. 

For customers with generators

  • Hire a licensed electrician to install permanent generators and transfer switches.
  • Properly ground all portable generators.
  • Carefully read and observe all instructions in your generator’s operating manual.
  • Never run a generator indoors, or even in an open garage.
  • If your carbon monoxide detector goes off – get out of the building immediately and call 911.
  • Do not store fuel indoors or try to refuel a generator while it’s running.
  • Refer to CMP’s web page on generator safety.

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Media Contact:

Jon Breed
Jonathan.Breed@avangrid.com
207.458.3510

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