Rain Storm

Portland, Maine

February 28^th 2010

The clean up projects in Maine have begun after the southeastern portion of the state experience heavy rains and high winds, causing floods, up rooted trees and widespread power outages.

The National Weather Service has reported that the southern towns in Maine had received over 10 inches of rain the past weekend as well as experiencing winds up to 60 mph. Many power lines were ruined from fallen trees causing power outages lasting up to 5 days in many residences.

The winds and the rain began to pick up early Thursday evening. As the night went on the intensity grew and before midnight the winds were so heavy it sounded like a freight train and the heavy rain and wind ripped down trees and blocked roads.

The weather service expects to see much beach erosion, flooding, and road closures throughout the state. Many roads and parking lots will also need repair from erosion.

In response to two day storm, utility officials have called back up help from New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Vermont to assist in a sufficient and quick clean up. Over 300,000 utility customers and crews worked busily to clear roads of fallen trees. Officials say patients are much appreciated at this time and any volunteer help could go a long way. Power is expected to be back on in local residence in the next 3-6 days depending on location.

This is not a one-day event. This could easily be multiple days, even a week, as far as restoration goes," said Chris Pope, director of Maine Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

Officials compared the storm that hit parts of Maine and slammed New Hampshire to the devastating ice storm of 2008 except with more excessive wind.

Even though frustration has hit many communities emergency shelter and assistance is offered all throughout the state.