Central Hudson Readies Crews for Possible Ice Storm; Customers Should Prepare

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation is preparing for an ice storm that is forecasted to impact the Mid-Hudson Valley tonight and may cause power outages.

The forecast issued by National Weather Service predicts continued precipitation tonight, becoming heaviest between 9 p.m. and 4 a.m. Friday morning. Colder temperatures tonight may cause ice accumulations, which are anticipated to be heaviest in western Ulster County and Greene County. Ice accumulations may affect other areas of the region, as well.

Central Hudson crews and staff are preparing for the possibility of outages by readying vehicles, assembling supplies, preparing work schedules, and making arrangements with contractors. Overnight staff will be monitoring the storm throughout the night.

Customers can prepare for the possibility electric service interruptions by:

• Keeping a flashlight and fresh batteries handy;
• Having a battery-powered radio to keep informed of restoration efforts;
• Stocking water and packaged or canned foods that require no refrigeration or cooking. Avoid opening your refrigerator unnecessarily during outages, so food lasts longer;
• Ensuring adequate supplies of prescription medications and other necessities.

If power is lost, contact Central Hudson’s automated PowerLine at (845) 452-2700 or 1-800-527-2714. Central Hudson will provide restoration updates to the local news media, and customers may check on the status of repairs on-line. Customers should also keeps safety in mind by:

• Keeping away from downed power lines;
• Avoiding the use of candles for illumination;
• Following the manufacturer’s safety instructions on the use of emergency generators, and operating the units outdoors;
• Never using outdoor gas or charcoal grills indoors, as they pose a fire hazard and over time can give off deadly carbon monoxide gas. Use these appliances only outdoors with proper ventilation.

For more information on how to prepare for storms that may affect electric service, steps to take if power lost and checking on the status of repairs, visit www.CentralHudson.com, and click on the Outages button.

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