AUGUSTA — State officials are not ordering any evacuations, but they are warning people to stay away from coastal areas.

Hurricane Irene is likely to affect all of Maine, though.

“It’s going to be the entire state,” Gov. Paul LePage said at a news conference this afternoon. “No one is going to escape the heavy winds and rains.”

LePage said he anticipates “significant power outages” throughout the state but that public and private organizations are prepared for the storm and its aftermath.

“I am very confident that state, federal and local assets have been put on standby and are ready to respond,” he said. “I am, however, urging all Mainers to take precautions now. Do not wait.”

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