LEWISTON, Maine — Multiple cities and towns located along the Androscoggin River have posted evacuation notices on Tuesday as floodwaters continue to rise.
The city of Lewiston has issued a flood evacuation order for low-lying parts of the community located near the river.
The order comes following a powerful storm that brought high winds, heavy rains, and warming temperatures that combined caused substantial snow melts. This led to historic high levels in many of the state's rivers, as well as flooding and washouts across much of Maine.
The city asked that people evacuate no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday until noon Wednesday.
The following areas will be closed during the evacuation:
- Switzerland Road at St. Peter’s Cemetery, 217 Switzerland Road to Gulf Island Avenue
- Tall Pines Drive from North Woods to Strawberry Avenue
- Oxford Street at Cedar Street
- River Street at Oxford Street, Nel Court
- Lincoln Drive
- Lincoln Terrace
- River Road at Ferry Road will have limited access
- Lincoln Street from Cedar Street to South Avenue
The city said that anyone in need of assistance in order to evacuate is asked to call the non-emergency dispatch number at 207-784-6421.
The emergency shelter at Connors Elementary has reportedly closed, according to a news release from the American Red Cross, Northern New England Region. Instead, residents are encouraged to utilize an emergency shelter at the Ramada Inn located at 490 Pleasant St. in Lewiston. The Red Cross said pets are welcome, and those seeking shelter should bring essential items both for themselves and their pets.
The city of Auburn has recommended certain parts of the city evacuate amid expected record flooding Tuesday.
The city "strongly recommends" evacuating low-lying parts of the following areas:
- North River Road
- Newbury Street
- Riverside Drive
For residents who choose to stay at home, the city recommends monitoring water levels periodically as there is a risk of rapid and unexpected change, which can create difficulties for first responders in reaching certain areas.
Auburn has also designated these locations for charging electronic devices if needed:
- Norway Savings Bank Arena located at 985 Turner St. until 10 p.m. Tuesday. It will reopen at 8 a.m. Wednesday
- Auburn Public Library located at 49 Spring St. from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday
- Auburn Senior Community Center located at 48 Pettengill Park beginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday
Lisbon issued an emergency alert Tuesday evening advising residents evacuate low-lying areas and neighborhoods along the river.
Streets included in the evacuation notice are as follows:
- Ann Street
- Davis Street
- Blethen Street
- Green Street
- Marc Street
- Claire Street
At approximately 7:20 p.m., Lisbon police noted Ferry Road was flooded by "Brooks Corner" and River Road was flooded near the Sabattus River Bridge area. The police and fire departments reportedly spoke to residents and businesses on Davis Street and connected streets that could be affected by flooding.
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