In preparation for the Feb. 23, 2026 snow storm that is expected to accumulate more than 6 inches of snow along the immediate coast, as well as clock high wind gusts, Central Maine Power is staffing extra crews at its service centers across regions of Maine "so we can respond quickly and safely to any outages that may occur," said CMP, in a news release.

The storm is forecast to bring snow and gusty winds that may exceed 40-50 mph. For safety reasons, CMP crews are prohibited from raising bucket truck arms when windspeeds are greater than 30 mph.

"From extreme cold, to heavy snow and now this expected storm, this winter has brought its share of weather challenges that our crews have risen to and overcome time and time again on behalf of our customers," said Linda Ball, President and CEO of Central Maine Power." Once again, our line crews, truck mechanics, customer service representatives and others throughout our company will be ready to respond. All of us at CMP are proud of their determination, commitment and service to Maine in moments like this.”

In every storm, CMP assists local emergency management agencies to clear roads blocked by downed trees, according to CMP.

"Falling trees are the leading cause of outages at CMP and road clearing can occur, even when it is too windy for crews to work in the air in buckets," said the news release. "As always, CMP is reminding customers to please stay away from any downed wires for safety."

Cold weather this winter has also put a focus on the importance of lineworker training and preparation for working in frigid conditions. This video illustrates some of the layering, gear and work practices CMP lineworkers use to ensure they can restore power, even through challenging winter weather.

Some of the many cancellations impacting the local region are:

State offices will be closed all day Monday, February 23, 2026 due to severe winter storm conditions. Governor Mills is strongly urging all Maine people to use extra caution if traveling.

The Islesboro Town Office, Health Center, and Transfer Station will be closed Monday, February 23 due to the impending storm. Please stay home and be safe. The Ferry Ticket Committee meeting is to be rescheduled. Please stay tuned! 

Lincolnville Community School budget workshop has been rescheduled to Tuesday, March 3, at 6 p.m. at the school. 

Due to the significant nor'easter storm coming in early Monday morning and snowing for almost 24 hours, the WBA Annual Meeting has been rescheduled to March 30.

Due to inclement weather, City of Belfast non-emergency services, including City Hall and The Belfast Free Library will be CLOSED TODAY, Monday, February 23. Emergency services will be available as always. Stay safe!

The City of Rockland Offices will be Monday, February 23, for all nonessential employees due to the winter storm. The Rockland Public Library is also closed for the day. The Special Meeting of the City Council, scheduled for this evening, Monday, February 23, has been canceled due to the storm. 

Due to the impending weather, the Union Town Office will be closed on Monday, February 23. The Select Board Meeting has been postponed.