RUMFORD – Seven Rumford firefighter crews began notifying people of the potential for flooding along the banks of the Androscoggin River about 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

They warned homeowners and businesses alike that water may flood their homes, but gave them the option of staying or evacuating to the emergency shelter set up at Mountain Valley High School.

Meanwhile, at least two people decided to take advantage of the warm place with food, shelter and beds in the high school gym. Boy Scouts from Rumford Troop 580 were on hand to help the Red Cross set up the shelter.

Maurice Jackman and Nancy Kenney, both from South Carolina who had been staying at the Blue Iris Motel in Rumford Center, decided it was best to head to higher ground after the motel owner told them of the threat.

“I thought we’d better leave. I wouldn’t want to fight out there in the freezing water,” said Kenney, who with Jackman, are among the crew working on the Rumford area’s upgrade of Adelphia Cable. “I figured we should be here and be safe.”

SAD 43 buildings and grounds director, Tim Gallant, said food would be available for anyone who decided to take refuge at the high school.

Boy Scout leader Richie Philbrick said getting the Scouts involved was a good chance for community service.

Rumford firefighters were notifying people living in Rumford Center, Rumford Point, on South Rumford Road, Andover Road, Sunnyside Terrace and sections of Prospect Avenue, and several others in the low-lying areas. Ice jams were reported in several areas, particularly in the Rumford Center vicinity.

Lt. Robert Dixon said more than 100 households would be notified Thursday night.

Chief John Woulfe said if the river rose much more, people living in some of these areas could be stuck and they shouldn’t be driving when water rises to the road.

In Mexico, firefighters kept a close watch on the Androscoggin River flowing at the rear of the municipal buildings. By 9 p.m., the river still had 5 inches to go before flowing into the rear parking lots.

The streets were quiet with no vehicles parked on either side. The owner of Lazarou Motors had taken a precaution earlier in the day and moved his vehicles to higher ground at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church.

An emergency shelter was available at Mountain Valley Middle School.

eadams@sunjournal.com

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