According to the climate forecasts, it appears that we are in for what appears to be a normal winter. What does this mean, it means that we should expect temperatures and precipitation near normal. If this holds true, there will be the normal need for heating fuels (Oil, Gas, LP). However, if the temperatures average below normal, there will be a greater need for fuel. Because of a potential for escalating heating fuel prices, we have begun monitoring the situation. Below, you can find information on our area. The Climate Prediction Center provides forecasts for temperatures 6-10 days into the future. Use the chart to the right shows the latest information on expected temperatures across the country.

There are two potential threats to residents of this area that are currently being monitored. The first is the economic factors affecting the cost of Heating Fuels, and the second is the availability of supplies. Currently the supplies appear to be adequate, but the economic impact is affecting residents now.

As of 3/20/2001, the per gallon prices in the Lewiston/Auburn Area average as follows:

Heating Oil	Propane	Kerosene
$1.22	N/A	$1.53

Data Source: www.maineoil.com

To assist residents, the Maine state government has put together a website for dealing with this problem. The website is located at: www.bundlemeup.org.

This site contains information on energy conservation, financial assistance programs, and links to related area web sites. We urge you to at least check out this site, it contains some valuable information.

In the Town of Poland, our agency is currently monitoring the situation. As with the Ice Storm of 1998, we are urging our residents to stay abreast of the latest information, and to check on their neighbors to make sure that they have adequate heat. The people who are at risk the most are those who are low-income or elderly.

For more information on available heating related financial assistance, visit the Bundlemeup Web Site.

Last Modified: 12/25/2000