Central Maine Power says it will begin restoration efforts tonight; 400 line crews to tackle multi-county outages
Linemen stage in a parking lot at the intersection of routes 17 and 220 in Washington. (Photo by Sarah Thompson)
Linemen stage in a parking lot at the intersection of routes 17 and 220 in Washington. (Photo by Sarah Thompson)
In an email to customers Dec. 18, at 6:30 p.m., Central Maine Power said restoration of electricity will begin overnight. CMP said the extensive damage of the Dec. 18 wind and rainstorm exceeded that of the 2022 Christmas storm.
“ Observed windspeeds exceeded 60 miles per hour in several areas causing widespread tree and structure damage,” CMP said. “As the storm exits our service area this evening, we anticipate a multi-day restoration effort involving more than 400 line and 200 tree crews.”
Because of the wind speed, the crews were unable today to use bucket trucks for repairs. They did, however, respond to downed wires and blocked roads.
“As the winds subside this evening, we will work to restore power to our customers as quickly and as safely as possible until all customers are restored,” CMP said. CMP advises customers to go to its website and manage account preferences.
As of 7 p.m., Dec. 18, CMP reported the following outages.
| County | Total Customers by County | Customers Without Power |
|---|---|---|
| ANDROSCOGGIN | 58,453 | 35,884 |
| CUMBERLAND | 176,694 | 63,582 |
| FRANKLIN | 24,260 | 9,799 |
| HANCOCK | 6,415 | 4,665 |
| KENNEBEC | 74,365 | 67,308 |
| KNOX | 26,691 | 9,005 |
| LINCOLN | 28,568 | 16,853 |
| OXFORD | 42,702 | 20,249 |
| PENOBSCOT | 14,995 | 11,197 |
| PISCATAQUIS | 10,239 | 2,557 |
| SAGADAHOC | 22,466 | 17,117 |
| SOMERSET | 31,273 | 24,971 |
| WALDO | 26,130 | 14,645 |
| YORK | 128,369 | 43,853 |
| Total | 673,950 | 341,685 |
“Outage Alerts will keep you informed if you experience an outage,” CMP said. “If we have a current cell phone number associated with your account, and you have not previously opted out, you will receive Outage Alerts automatically. You can choose how you want to receive them - by text messages, email, phone, or all three - within My Account.
“Download our Mobile App at the App Store or Google Play to report an outage, see your estimated restoration time, and access Outage Lists and Maps. Or text APP to 267898 and we'll send you a downloadable link to our app.
“You can also view our Storm Safety Checklist and Storm Information for additional preparations you can take. If you have a generator, review our generator safety information to ensure you're operating it safely if you experience a power outage.
Safety reminders if you lose power:
Stay away from downed lines. No line is safe to touch - ever. If you see one, please remain at least 30 feet away and report it to us by calling 800.696.1000.
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.
