MIDCOAST — It will be hard to believe if it really happens, given the paucity of snow so far this winter, but meteorologists are calling for a sizable amount to fall, starting late tonight, Jan. 19. The National Weather Service has issued a storm warning for the area, with four to 8 inches of snow predicted over the next 24 hours.

Maine’s Emergency Management Agency is advising that those who plan to travel during the storm to tell someone where they are going and when they anticipate arriving at the destination. Emergency car kits should have the following supplies:

• Flashlight with new batteries
• First aid kit
• Ice scraper
• Snow shovel
• Bag of kitty litter - if you become stuck this will help with traction
• Jumper cables - know how to use them properly before attempting to use them
• Water
• Blanket
• Cellphone charger
• Reflective triangles, a flare, or bright garment to signal needing help
• Tool kit
• Waterproof matches

"We have watched the storm progress throughout the week, and we have spoken with our partners from the National Weather Service and Maine Department of Transportation," said MEMA Director Peter Rogers, in a news release. "Although the storm is expected to be a primarily a snow event, the morning and evening commutes could be slick. Please use caution and also leave enough space on the road for snow plows and emergency first responders."

Mainers are encouraged to stay tuned to alerts and warnings through media or by downloading the free FEMA app on their smart phone, which provides targeted preparedness information, alerts and warnings for specific areas.

If alternative power or heat sources are needed during the storm, residents are reminded to ensure the equipment is in proper working condition, properly installed, and that you follow the manufacturer's guidelines. For more information on being prepared please visit MEMA on Facebook or Twitter.

For further tips or resources on heating during the winter months, visit the Governor's Energy Office's Winter Heating Guide.

Warming and Charging Centers operated by local municipalities could open in communities across Maine. Please visit MEMA's websiteto find a location near you. You may also dial 2-1-1 or visit their website for a list of locations.

Central Maine Power said that it is preparing.

“Given the forecasted gusty winds and wet snow possible, our storm team is proactively pre-staging additional crews across our service area ahead of the storm to be able to respond as quickly as possible,” the power company said. 

Important safety information and easy ways to be prepared:

Downed Wires - no line is safe to touch, ever! 

Stay at least 30 feet away from downed wires and report them to CMP at 800.696.1000.

Be Prepared: Keep battery-operated flashlights and radios on hand, along with supplies of drinking water and non-perishable foods.

Be in Charge: Charge your phone, your portable chargers and any other chargeable devices in case your power goes out.

Stay informed:

Sign up for MyAccount to manage your account preferences all in one place. Click on the Preferences tab and turn on or off the services you would like to apply to your account.

Sign up for Outage Alerts to stay informed and receive automatic text, email or voice message information regarding your outage. CMP will notify users if the power is out at their location, when an estimated time of restoration is determined, and when power is restored.

Download CMP’s Mobile App at the App Store and Google Play to report an outage, see your estimated restoration time, and access Outage Lists and Maps. Or text APP to 267898 and CMP will send a downloadable link to its app.