Heavy, wet snowfall and high winds produced by a hard-hitting April Fools Day nor’easter combined to produce widespread power outages in Lincoln County on Friday, according to the Central Maine Power Co. (CMP).
At 5 p.m. on Friday an estimated 19,000 customer accounts were without service statewide. The number of outages reached a peak of 25,000 in the early afternoon. Lincoln County was one of the hardest hit areas, with 3177 customers suffering from power outages.
CMP brought in additional line and tree contractors to help local crews. With heavy snow still falling in many northern and inland areas, the company has nearly 600 workers in the field and in support roles this afternoon, working to make downed lines safe, assess damage, and restore power.
“Everyone should stay clear of any downed power lines and 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.
If outages occur, customers should call the toll-free outage hotline: 1-800-696-1000. Additional information on storm safety can be found on CMP’s web site at http://www3.cmpco.com/outage/.
CMP will also issue storm updates on Twitter. People can follow CMP by going to http://www.twitter.com/@cmpco.
