Thousands without power and schools close after overnight storm

Over 3,000 Old Town residents were still without power Friday afternoon following an overnight storm Oct. 31-Nov. 1. 

Several streets were still closed as of 2:30 p.m. Friday including West Old Town Road — from the interstate to Kirkland Road — Somerset Street and University Park Road. 

Capt. Matt Reading of Old Town Fire and Rescue said they received over 20 calls between 2 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Friday reporting damage. He said ongoing issues Friday afternoon continued to be blocked roads and wire problems due to downed trees.  

University of Maine students received text alerts announcing classes were canceled due to road closures and power outages. Students were discouraged from walking or driving on campus because of the extreme wind gusts. Power was restored a little after 3:30 p.m. Friday and classes were set to resume at 5 p.m. Area schools were also closed due to unsafe conditions. 

Capt. Reading said they were given no estimated time from Emera when the power would come back.