As Maine battens down for its second major storm in two weeks, state officials and Maine’s two largest electric utilities are again preparing for possible widespread power outages.

The National Weather Service is predicting heavy rains on Friday, with high winds, including gusts up to 60 mph, extending overnight into Saturday. The weather service says some coastal areas may have moderate flooding Friday morning around the time of high tide with one to two feet of water possible. Pockets of major flooding are possible with up to three feet of water in some areas.

“We are strongly urging all Maine people to prepare for this major storm,” Gov. Janet Mills said in a statement. “Please take every precaution to protect yourself, exercise caution when traveling, and check on your family, friends, and neighbors. We want to ensure that all Maine people stay safe during this holiday weekend.” 

The Maine Emergency Management Agency urged all residents to prepare before the holiday weekend.

“Now is the time to prepare for this major storm,” said MEMA Director Peter Rogers. “Many folks will be traveling for the holidays in the next few days so plan ahead and be safe. We all need to be prepared for the possibility of a multi-day response.”

The storm comes on the heels of a nor’easter last weekend which knocked out power to thousands of customers statewide. On Monday morning, there had been more than 30,000 customers in the dark between both utilities. 

Central Maine Power services more than 636,000 customers, most of which in the southeastern portion of the state. Versant has nearly 136,000 customers, and covers portions of Aroostook, Penobscot, Hancock, Piscataquis and Washington counties.

“Given the forecasted wind and rain, we are anticipating wide-spread outages, so our storm team is proactively pre-staging line workers and tree crews across our service area ahead of the storm to be able to respond as quickly as possible.” Central Maine Power announced in a message to customers.

Versant, in a statement, also indicated crews were preparing, but a spokesman also warned that outages might be lengthy.

“We are closely monitoring the weather and preparing a full complement of field, contract and tree crews to address public safety issues, begin assessing any damage, and to conduct any necessary repairs,” said Judy Long, a spokesperson for Versant. “With the severity of the weather predicted at this point in time, it is possible that restoration efforts following the storm will take multiple days.”

Both companies warned against approaching downed power lines, and offered other tips for managing outages, including keeping plenty of battery-powered flashlights, drinking water and non-perishable foods on hand. Both utilities also suggested customers make sure cell phones are fully charged.

CMP also suggested keeping vehicle fuel tanks full.

Versant suggested keeping a battery-operated radio on hand in case customers had to shelter in place.

Versant also suggested having an outdoor power generator, adding “customers with special medical needs are encouraged to create a plan to follow if power to their home is interrupted for a period of time.”  For those seeking warmth, the utility recommended calling 211, a free service that could provide information on local warming centers.