Central Hudson Storm Restoration Update
Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation continues restoration efforts in one of the largest storms to impact the Mid-Hudson Valley. Electric service has been restored to more than 30,000 customers since this morning, when 90,000 service interruptions were first reported. To restore service to the remaining 60,000 customers, Central Hudson is utilizing both internal and external resources, and has obtained the assistance of private line and tree-trimming crews to assist in the restoration effort. In addition, arrangements are being made to secure additional crews, with the potential of more than 180 crews – double the normal level – working to restore service in the aftermath of this damaging storm.
Customers are reminded that power restoration may take several days due to widespread damage caused by the wet, heavy snow, and should make alternate arrangements for shelter. Emergency shelters have been established at the Kerhonkson Fire Department at 333 Main Street in Kerhonkson, Hurley Reformed Church in Hurley, The Health and Wellness Center at SUNY New Paltz, and the Athens Fire Department.
Outages exist in all eight counties served by the utility, though most of the worst widespread damage occurred in the Greene, Albany, Ulster and northern Dutchess counties, where the heaviest snow accumulation fell on trees and equipment. As of this evening, it is estimated that approximately 16,000 customers are without service in Dutchess and southern Columbia counties; 21,000 in Ulster County; about 4,000 in Orange County; and approximately 12,000 in Greene County. Crews will continue to work through the night, and fresh crews will be assigned in the morning.
Central Hudson officials noted that a second storm front is forecast for Thursday and possibly Friday, with the potential to interrupt service again. Customers should be prepared for this second storm by checking on supplies of non-perishable food, water and medications.
Those customers with access to a computer or compatible cell phone should report their power condition via the utility’s website, www.CentralHudson.com, by using the StormCentral function. There, they can also access information regarding the extent of outages; once service restoration estimates become available, they will be found on the website as well. Please note that due to the extensive nature of the damage caused by this storm, projected restoration information may not be available for all locations via that system for several days. Customers may also contact the utility by calling (845) 452-2700 or 1 (800) 527-2714 to report a power outage, and they are encouraged to use the automated reporting system to do so.
Customers are reminded to check on frail or elderly neighbors, relatives or friends – including any who may rely on electrically-operated life-sustaining equipment – and encourage them to seek alternate shelter, as it may take several days before their power is restored.
Customers are also reminded to stay clear of downed or sagging wires – they could be lethal. As fallen wires may be hidden by trees or debris, extreme caution should be used when moving through an outage zone. If a power line falls on a vehicle, occupants should stay inside and wait for rescue crews. Customers should not heat their homes with an unvented heater, gas range or any similar appliance, as they can produce deadly carbon monoxide. Generators should be operated only in a vented, dry location; outdoor gas grills should never be used to heat indoors because they pose a fire hazard and can give off deadly carbon monoxide gas.
For updates, safety tips and more information on how to prepare for storms, visit www.CentralHudson.com.
Central Hudson will provide updated information on work completed by overnight crews after 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 25.
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