Central Maine Power Company (CMP) crews were out in full force Monday morning after strong gusty winds from a powerful coastal storm disrupted service to thousands of homes and businesses in the utility’s service area. At 9:30 a.m. Monday, an estimated 60,177 customer accounts were without service.
That figures includes 4642 accounts in Lincoln County.
“People in the field are reporting many, many large limbs and trees down on power lines throughout our service area,” said CMP spokesperson Gail Rice. “In some areas, particularly Cumberland County and parts of Sagadahoc and Lincoln Counties, crews are still making sure downed lines are de-energized and not posing a danger to passers by.”
Rice adds all available crews are working on storm repair, and additional crews from contractors and CMP’s affiliates in New York are on their way. So far, more than 40 broken utility poles have been found, and that number is likely to go up.
“We are still in the early stages of our damage assessment,” she added. “That assessment needs to be more complete before we can make any meaningful estimates for power restoration.”
The company urges customers to use caution if they see downed lines.
“Everyone should stay clear of any downed power lines and fallen trees or limbs that may be tangled in the lines,” said Rice. “These should all be considered live and dangerous. Customers should leave the clean-up to our crews, who are trained and equipped to handle these situations safely.”
CMP also reminds drivers to use caution when approaching utility crews in the roadway. The working conditions are difficult, and they will appreciate everyone’s consideration for their safety.
Additional information on storm safety and restoration, including a town-by-town listing of outages in the CMP service area with an area map, can be found on CMP’s web site at www.cmpco.com.
