As Duke Energy's team of meteorologists continue to monitor the next winter storm's development, Duke Energy crews are making preparations to safely handle any winter weather-related service interruptions.
This storm will again feature snow, sleet and freezing rain. Winter storms are challenging to predict because a few miles and a few degrees can make all the difference as to the type of precipitation an area experiences, and whether or not outages occur. Our crews will be prepared in all regions to respond should outages occur.
We held back Duke Energy team members from the Midwest and Florida and some of our contractors from other companies to make sure we’re prepared for this weekend’s potential storm.
As part of our standard process and procedure after every major storm, we do a “sweep” of the hardest hit areas to identify and eliminate any vulnerabilities that may have been created by the storm and not addressed as a part of restoration.
Preparing for a power outage
Weather can be unpredictable, so we’re encouraging customers to be prepared for whatever conditions occur. Prepare for winter weather and outages that may impact them by doing the following:
- Ensure an adequate supply of flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable foods, medicines, etc., as well as the availability of a portable, battery-operated radio, TV or weather radio.
- Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized as well as trees or limbs in contact with lines. Please report downed power lines to Duke Energy or local emergency services.
- If you use a generator due to a power outage, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and proper operation. Operate your generator outside; never operate it inside a building or garage.
- Don’t use grills or other outdoor appliances or equipment indoors for space heating or cooking, as these devices may omit carbon monoxide.
- Customers should make alternate shelter arrangements as needed if you will be significantly impacted by a loss of power – especially families who have special medical needs or elderly members.
Reporting power outages
Customers who experience power outages should call Duke Energy's automated outage-reporting systems for their respective utility:
- Duke Energy Carolinas: 1-800-POWERON (1-800-769-3766)
- Duke Energy Progress: 1-800-419-6356
Customers may also report an outage or view current outages online at www.duke-energy.com/outages or text OUT to 57801
Duke Energy will also provide updates on its social media channels to keep customers informed if significant outages occur:
