REC crews, contractors and other field teams continue to repair damage and restore service after Saturday’s powerful winds knocked out service to about 8,000 members across the state.
As of 8 a.m., about 144 separate outage sites remain, affecting about 1,500 members. REC expects to have the majority of remaining outages restored by Sunday night.
Relentless winds gusted up to 60 mph from midday through late evening, hindering restoration efforts for crews on Saturday night. The wind downed trees, many of which fell on to power poles and other electrical equipment.
Mutual aid crews from Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative will be assisting REC crews today, and additional mutual aid crews have been requested.
Important safety reminders:
If you see a downed power line, always assume it is energized and dangerous. Stay away from the line and anything that might be in contact with it. Call 911 and contact REC at 800-552-3904 to report downed power lines.
If your backup power plan includes using a generator, it is critical to follow all safety recommendations.
