Prepare for Spring

The Flood of 1987 was devastating to many business and families in Maine. It's easy to forget just how devastating. This photo, from Water and Bond Streets in Augusta, is a reminder. MDOT photo.

Spring is mud season. Spring is "frost heave" season. We're also accustomed to thinking of spring as "flood season" in Maine. Although floods can come at any time, in the late winter and early spring we have snow, frozen ground, no leaves on the trees and ice in rivers, all of which increase the risk of flooding when spring rains arrive.

Here are some useful links for "flood season", along with entries from our own library for flood safety and preparedness. And remember, a Maine spring also often features winter-like storms, so don't lose touch with Winter Safety Tips.

Hazards of the Season From Our Library:
Preparedness for Horse Owners
Preventing Barn Fires
Your Go-Bag
Flood and Flash Flood Safety
Flood Preparedness
Watch, Warning and Advisory Criteria for Floods
After the Flood: Record Keeping
After the Flood: Returning Home
Alternative Heat Source Safety
Questions and Answers About Mold

Maine River Flow Advisory Commission: Riverwatch
Your gateway to real-time river and weather information
Flood Watches, Warnings and Statements
from the National Weather Service
Maine Floodplain Management Program
Information on floodplain management in Maine, and the National Flood Insurance Program
FEMA: Flood Facts
Steps to take after receiving a flood warning, what to do during a flood, and after-flood tips for repairing your home.
American Red Cross Disaster Services - Flooding
How to recognize flood warnings to preparation, management and after-flood tips from the American Red Cross.
Information and tips from The Weather Channel
Evaluating risk and what to do before, during and after a flood from The Weather Channel.
Preparedness Guide (U.S. Department of Commerce)
Definitions, tips for early warning and steps to take during a flood from The National Weather Service.
Minimize basement flooding
Tips from the Institute for Business and Home Safety

Service
Organizations

MAINE PREPARES

Prepare for Spring