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Last updated on Thursday, January 11, 2018
(UNDATED) - With forecasts for possible heavy snow and freezing rain in the Midwest, Duke Energy is preparing to respond to possible power outages in Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky.
Duke Energy Indiana prepares for first winter storm of 2018; crews prepared to respond
§ Customers should prepare for extended power outages
Heavy wet snow or freezing rain can cause outages due to the weight they create on tree limbs, which can break or sag onto power lines. Widespread outages usually do not occur until there is more than six inches of wet snow or a quarter-inch of ice accumulation. However, customers should be prepared anytime wintry weather is forecasted.
Duke Energy meteorologists continue to monitor weather conditions and the company will adjust its preparation plans accordingly. Weather can be unpredictable, so it is always good to be prepared for whatever conditions occur. Snow can cause hazardous driving conditions resulting in traffic accidents and downed power poles resulting in isolated outages.
The company is prepared to respond if severe weather situations occur. Line technicians, service crews and other personnel are available throughout Duke Energy's Midwest service area, and are ready to respond anytime outages and emergencies occur.
Power outages expected
Based on the current forecast, widespread, multiple-day power outages are expected and customers should be prepared. In addition, weather and travel conditions may be hazardous and challenging, and could delay Duke Energy workers' ability to fully assess storm damage and completely restore electric service.
With temperatures below freezing, customers should make alternate arrangements as needed - especially families who have special medical needs or elderly members. We urge everyone to be prepared and stay safe - and encourage other family members, friends and neighbors to do the same.
Safety Reminders
Reporting outages
Customers who experience an outage during the storm have choices on how to report it:
Duke Energy also will provide updates on its social media channels to keep customers informed if significant outages occur:
§ Duke Energy on Twitter: www.twitter.com/DukeEnergy
§ Duke Energy on Facebook: www.facebook.com/DukeEnergy
Cold temperatures increasing demand
§ As temperatures are forecasted to dive well below freezing later this weekend and early next week, Duke Energy is prepared to meet its customers' energy needs across Indiana.
§ Our system operators are closely monitoring the electric power system and the company has an adequate supply of electricity to meet demand.
§ The low temperatures will put higher stress on the equipment used to generate and deliver electricity. Isolated equipment problems are possible, which could result in some scattered outages.
About Duke Energy Indiana
Duke Energy Indiana's operations provide about 6,800 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 820,000 customers in a 23,000-square-mile service area, making it the state's largest electric supplier.
Duke Energy is a Fortune 125 company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DUK. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com.
The Duke Energy News Center serves as a multimedia resource for journalists and features news releases, helpful links, photos and videos. Hosted by Duke Energy, illumination is an online destination for stories about people, innovations, and community and environmental topics. It also offers glimpses into the past and insights into the future of energy.
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