This comes amid the ongoing efforts to restore power after a nor'easter left about a third of the state's electrical customers without power this past weekend. Some still remain without power on April 13.

"We are monitoring this storm closely and working to get additional crews in place through mutual assistance agreements," said MEMA Director Peter Rogers, in an April 13 news release. "MEMA staff continue to work on this Easter holiday and weve been talking with the National Weather Service, utilities and others to prepare for this challenging weather event thats heading our way." MEMA will continue to work with utilities to prioritize power restoration for critical services such as hospitals, healthcare facilities and food distribution facilities. The National Weather Service predicts damaging winds, especially along the coast. Rain combined with melting snow is expected to cause river and stream levels to rise, especially in northern and central Maine.

"We are in flood season, and these conditions are on our radar as well," said Rogers. "We have already experienced some flooding in Aroostook County due to the large amounts of snow in that region and the rain will only add to that threat." Mainers are reminded to ensure that alternate heat and power sources are in proper working condition and properly installed. Mainers should also remove objects in their yard that could take flight during strong winds. In anticipation of potential flooding, Mainers are reminded to take the following steps to protect their homes or businesses from flood damage:

- Be aware of hazards that can increase the potential for flooding, including flash flooding such as heavy rain, melting snow and ice jams.

- Know the flood prone areas in your community, including dam locations.

- Have a family evacuation/communications plan.

- Know where and how to seek shelter in the event of evacuation.

- Check with your insurance agent about flood insurance coverage; most homeowners insurance does not cover floods.

- Take steps to "flood proof" your home, such as elevating electronics, appliances and furniture, building a dam of sandbags, unplugging electronics and equipment and varnishing wood doors and floors.

- During the flood stay tuned to radio or TV to get the latest information or monitor a NOAA Weather radio.

- Pay attention to evacuation orders.

- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams or areas at risk of flooding.

- DO NOT DRIVE ON FLOODED ROADWAYS or cross flowing streams, as the road underneath may be washed out.

- Be cautious when driving at night as it may be more difficult to recognize flood dangers.

The State Emergency Operations Center remains operational seven days a week and is responding to resource needs of the county emergency management agencies related to Covid-19 as well as storm events. For additional information, please visit Maine.gov/MEMA, or visit MEMA on Facebook or Twitter.