Storm Center

Be Prepared for Storms!

Severe storms, unfortunately, do happen and are devastating to homes, properties, and lives. These storms can also take down power lines—creating a dangerous situation for all of us, including the linemen and linewomen working hard to get your power turned back on.

How long it takes to get your power restored depends on the extent of the storm’s destruction, the number of outages, and when it becomes safe for utility personnel to get to the damaged areas. There are many steps in the assessment and restoration process—clearing downed power lines; ensuring public health and safety facilities are operational; checking power stations and transformers; repairing transmission lines, substations, and distribution lines; and getting power restored to members within the various damaged areas.

To report an outage, call us at 1-800-456-6720.

Prepare for a Winter Power Outage

Winter power outages can be caused by a variety of factors, including heavy snowfall, ice storms, and strong winds. These outages can disrupt daily life and make it difficult to stay warm and safe. Here are some ways you can prepare for a winter power outage:

1. Make an emergency kit: Keep a kit stocked with supplies in case you lose power or need to evacuate your home. Your kit should include non-perishable food, water, flashlights, a radio, extra batteries, and a first-aid kit.

2. Have an alternative heating source: If you rely on electricity to heat your home, it's important to have a backup plan in case of a power outage. This could include a wood stove, fireplace, or portable heater. Make sure to follow proper safety guidelines when using alternative heating sources.

3. Insulate your home: To help keep your home warm during a power outage, make sure it is properly insulated. This includes sealing windows and doors, and adding weather stripping to help keep out drafts.

4. Keep your car ready: Make sure your car is winterized and has a full tank of gas. Keep a winter emergency kit in your car, including a blanket, extra warm clothing, and a flashlight.

5. Stay informed: Keep track of weather forecasts and updates from local authorities. If a power outage is likely, make sure to charge your phone and other electronic devices beforehand.

By following these steps, you can be better prepared for a winter power outage and stay safe during this potentially disruptive and dangerous situation.

Prepare for a Winter Storm

Winter storms can bring a range of weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and strong winds. These storms can be dangerous and disrupt daily life, so it's important to be prepared. Here are some ways you can prepare for a winter storm:

1. Make an emergency kit: Keep a kit stocked with supplies in case you lose power or need to evacuate your home. Your kit should include non-perishable food, water, flashlights, a radio, extra batteries, and a first-aid kit.

2. Stock up on supplies: Before a storm hits, make sure you have enough supplies to last a few days. This includes food, water, and any medications you may need. It's also a good idea to have extra blankets, warm clothing, and a heating source on hand.

3. Know your evacuation routes: If you live in an area prone to flooding or other weather-related hazards, make sure you know how to safely evacuate your home.

4. Protect your pipes: To prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting, insulate them and keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature. If you're going to be away from home for an extended period of time, make sure to shut off the water supply and drain the pipes.

5. Keep your car ready: Make sure your car is winterized and has a full tank of gas. Keep a winter emergency kit in your car, including a blanket, extra warm clothing, and a flashlight.

6. Stay informed: Keep track of weather forecasts and updates from local authorities. If a storm is coming, follow any evacuation orders or other emergency instructions.

By following these steps, you can be better prepared to weather a winter storm and stay safe during dangerous weather conditions.

Conserve Heat During an Outage

There are a few ways that setting up a tent in your living room can help to keep you warm during a power outage:

1. Insulation: A tent can provide an additional layer of insulation between you and the cold air outside. The fabric of the tent will trap some of your body heat and keep it close to you, helping to keep you warm.

2. Physical activity: Setting up and taking down a tent can be a physically active process, which can help to generate body heat and keep you warm.

3. Close quarters: Being in a small, enclosed space like a tent can help to keep you warm by reducing the amount of air circulation in the space. This can help to trap the heat that your body generates, keeping you warmer.

It's worth noting that a tent alone may not be enough to keep you warm during a power outage, especially if it's extremely cold outside. It's important to have additional sources of warmth, such as blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing, to help keep you warm. It's also a good idea to have a backup plan for heat, such as a fireplace or wood stove, if possible.

Check to see current weather conditions.