PLAINFIELD, Ind. – Duke Energy is preparing for a winter storm system that may cause power outages in some regions of its Indiana system beginning Sunday.
Snow on its own typically does not have a big impact on the electric system. However, heavy wet snow accumulation, freezing rain, and winds may bring down trees, limbs, and power lines. These types of winter storms can also create hazardous driving conditions which could delay and impede Duke Energy workers’ ability to assess storm damage and restore power.
Duke Energy contractors—including additional line workers and other support personnel – are on standby to supplement the company’s local workforce and speed power restoration. Crews will work around the clock to restore power in impacted communities as quickly as possible.
Ice buildup on trees and branches that causes them to fall on power lines is usually the main culprit behind power outages during a winter storm. The weight of significant ice buildup directly on the power lines themselves can sometimes cause the lines to fall or sag. Heavy, wet snow also can cause trees and branches to fall on power lines.
After the storm, as conditions permit, crews will assess damage to determine the types of crews, equipment, and supplies needed to restore electricity to each power outage location.
Customers can report power outages by texting “OUT” to 57801 or by calling 800.343.3525. They may also report an outage online at duke-energy.com/outages or through the Duke Energy mobile app. Duke Energy will provide estimated power restoration times to customers as soon as those times are determined.
The company also will provide regular updates to customers and communities through emails, text messages, outbound phone calls, social media, and its website, which includes power outage maps.