BY BETTY ADAMS

Staff Writer

Grab some new batteries, bottled water, candles, lanterns and find a snug spot to hole up.

Kyle's coming.

The tropical storm might hit hurricane strength before reaching Maine, and state officials want everyone prepared in case of emergency.

No, it's not bringing feet of snow. Instead, sheets of rain.

"The biggest threat to safety will be the potential for small stream flooding and high wave action in coastal areas," Rob McAleer said Friday. McAleer is director of the Maine Emergency Management Agency.

"We urge everyone to pay close attention to weather warnings, and stay away from any flooded roadways, or fast-running streams," he said.

Richard Beausoleil, Kennebec County's emergency management agency director, spent time Friday afternoon talking with state officials deciding how to deal with the impending weather.

"They're talking about getting 3 to 5 inches of rain in Kennebec County by midday Sunday," Beausoleil said. "Depending on the track of Kyle, we shouldn't get damaging winds and not a lot more rain. If it changes course, we could get an additional 2 inches of rain on Sunday."

The National Weather Service Friday night issued a flood watch through tonight for parts or all of Kennebec, Lincoln, Sagadahoc and Waldo counties. The Service was calling for a 100 percent chance of heavy rain through tonight and a 100 percent chance of rain during the overnight.

Beausoleil cautioned about large puddles and local street flooding. He said drivers should watch out for hydroplaning, when a car going too fast for wet conditions loses contact with the pavement.

A followup conference is set for 2 p.m. today, Beausoleil said.

Weather predictions also disrupted high school sports schedules, postponing soccer and field hockey games today.

McAleer said Kyle's arrival provides an opportunity for residents to assess emergency preparations at home and work.

The agency offers a list of recommendations:

* Keep disaster supplies on hand, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary, taking unique medical and other needs into account.

* Arrange to keep pets and livestock safe.

* Secure outdoor furniture and other items or bring them indoors.

* Heed official warnings, including evacuation directions and flood barricades.

"It's the job of each of us to stay aware of severe weather, act responsibly and keep our families safe during a major storm," McAleer said.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Ready Campaign recommends having a three-day supply of water for each individual including pets, along with nonperishable food, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries and a flashlight.

Information on preparing for emergencies can be found at www.maineprepares.com and at www.ready.gov.

Betty Adams -- 621-5631

badams@centralmaine.com