Pordtland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, to serve as Warming Center Weekdays from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and on Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Governor Janet T. Mills (D), and Maine emergency management officials are urging Maine people to prepare for the extreme winter cold expected this weekend and to exercise caution throughout it.

Maine is forecast to experience a level of extreme cold temperatures that only occurs about once every decade.  The National Weather Service (NWS) in Gray and Caribou report wind chills are expected to remain well below zero across the state for at least 48 hours beginning on Friday morning.  The potential exists for wind chills below -35F alondg the coast and below .-45F in the foothills and mountains.  High temperatures Saturday will remain below 0F in the mountains and in the single digits along the coast.  River freeze-up jams are possible this weekend.

“Temperatures this weekend will be extremely – and dangerously – cold across the state,” said Governor Mills.  “Please take extra precautions, be careful if you go outside, and be sure to check on your family, friends and neighbors to make sure they are okay.  MEMA will be working closely with county emeergency agencies and local partners to support warming centers.

Warming and Charging Centers – which are operated by local municipalities – are opening in communities across Maine.  Visi MEMA’s websie to find a location near you:  https://www.maine.gov/mema/rsponserecovery/masscare.  You may also dial 2-1-1 or visit their website for a list of locations.

In Portland, First Parish Church, 425 Congress Street will serve as a warming center on Friday and Saturday between 8;00 am – 4:00 pm. The Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, will  serve as a warming center 10:00 am – 5:00 pm weekdays and from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Saturday.