NYSEG Works to Complete Restoration Effort as Additional Storms Forecasted
Additional Storms Expected to Impact Customers on Monday
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK — August 19, 2019, 12:00 pm — NYSEG, a subsidiary of AVANGRID Inc., announced Monday morning that restoration efforts from Sunday’s severe thunderstorms were nearing completion. As of 12:00 p.m., less than 750 customers remain without power. Crews and contractors continue to work on restoration efforts and customers should be fully restored today. The company will also continue to work with customers that may be experiencing isolated outages as a result of storm damage to customer owned equipment. NYSEG alerted customers in their services area of updated forecasts that show another round of severe weather expected Monday afternoon and evening. The utility also announced that it is using helicopters to inspect the transmission system that was impacted by yesterday’s storm.
“While this weekend’s weather packed a punch, Mother Nature’s not quite done yet,” said Patricia Nilsen, Director of Emergency Preparedness for NYSEG and RG&E. “Our crews did a tremendous job restoring power to customers in the aftermath of rather severe storms. However, Monday’s forecast has the potential to be equally troubling, with more rain, lightning and wind gusts expected. While the company is preparing, we urge customers to use caution and also plan accordingly.”
NYSEG emphasized the strong coordination between the company, first responders and municipal officials, thanking each for their effort in the restoration process.
NYSEG encourages customers to sign up for Outage Alerts to receive updates throughout the event automatically by phone, text, or email as the company updates the status of the restoration process in their area. This information is also available online .
NYSEG offers customers the following reminders:
Stay Away From Downed Wires
- Stay at least 20 feet from a downed power line.
- If a downed wire comes in contact with your vehicle, stay inside and wait for help. If you must get out because of fire or other danger, jump clear of the vehicle to avoid any contact with the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Land with your feet together and hop with feet together or shuffle away; don’t run or stride.
- NYSEG customers should call 1.800.572.1131 to report downed power lines or other hazardous situations.
During a Power Interruption
- Contact neighbors to see if their power is off. A loss of power may be the result of a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker.
- To report a power interruption, contact NYSEG at 1.800.572.1131.
- Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible. Most food will last 24 hours if you minimize the opening of refrigerator and freezer doors.
Media Contact:
Michael Jamison
585.484.5361 (business hours)
203.997.7906 (mobile phone)