Orange and Rockland Utilities (O&R) is preparing to mobilize its emergency response workforce to repair potential damage and restore possible power outages that could result from severe thunderstorms this weekend that are predicted in isolated areas throughout the region between 4 p.m. tomorrow and 4 a.m. Sunday.
A severe thunderstorm could pose a significant threat to electric service because its associated high winds and lightning strikes contribute to downing trees, tree limbs and overhead electric lines – all of which could interfere with the safe, reliable delivery of electric service. The full summer foliage increases the risk of tree damage and subsequent electric service outages.
O&R company and contractor overhead line crews and tree removal experts, customer service operators and the rest of the members of the O&R emergency response team will be activated and deployed late this afternoon.
O&R Warns
For safety’s sake, O&R warns the public not to touch or approach any downed wire. Assume it is energized and dangerous. Call O&R immediately toll-free 1-877-434-4100. Depending on the situation, you may also consider calling your local police to divert traffic from the downed wire’s location until an O&R crew arrives.
How to Report an Outage
If you experience a power outage, don’t assume that O&R automatically knows about it. You can report it and check to see when your lights will be back on through:
Report an Electric Service Problem | Orange & Rockland oru.com from any computer or web-based mobile device.
Or Call 1-877-434-4100.