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The local weather forecast for Oak Ridge includes a winter storm warning this evening (Wednesday) and into tomorrow (Thursday). In response, City crews, including those in the Electric Department, are preparing for the worst. We are fueling trucks and chainsaws, arranging for extra crews, and handling the hundreds of other tasks necessary for us to mount a rapid, coordinated response.
The power Oak Ridge provides to you is generated by the Tennessee Valley Authority. As a long-term partner of TVA, we have placed our faith in that organization to supply the power we use to keep your homes warm and your business and industry moving. TVA has a robust and resilient generation and transmission fleet and I am confident that our faith is well justified.
During winter storms, it is the local distribution systems that take the most damage. It is possible that trees may fall and break poles which we will need to replace, wires may be torn down, or that any of tens of thousands of electrical connections might prove to be the feared “weakest link.” As a result, it is possible you may lose power until repairs are made.
I encourage you to be prepared for this eventuality. Find your flashlight batteries, pull out the extra blankets and think about what foods you can prepare and eat with little preparation. It’s a good idea to keep a small stock of essential medications and other necessities. During these kinds of storms, it is generally best to hunker down and stay home.
Should your lights go out, rest assured, that your energy is provided by organizations that are prepared for emergencies and which are fully committed to our City. Our crews will be responding with a passion and personal commitment to getting your power restored as quickly as possible.
We are your friends and neighbors and keeping your lights on is our mission and one we take very seriously.
For updates, follow the City of Oak Ridge Government on social media.
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