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REC Restores More than 20,000 Power Outages Some Outages Will Last into the Weekend
As of 2 p.m., REC's crews and contractors have restored more than 20,000 outages that occurred as a result of Winter Storm Freya, which brought ice, heavy rain and scattered storms overnight and into this morning.
Crews from Southside Electric Cooperative, Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative and Community Electric Cooperative will be joining REC and its contract crews to work as quickly and safely as possible to restore all outages. Some outages are expected to persist into the weekend.
The number of outages will likely fluctuate throughout the day as crews discover more damage or additional trees fall damaging equipment. In addition to traditional bucket trucks, REC is using specialized equipment such as track machines and big foot trucks to reach difficult-to-access damage sites.
The already saturated ground has made some rights-of-ways difficult to access and also has contributed to the number of trees that have fallen.
Please keep all crews in your thoughts as they continue their dangerous work.
Key points to keep in mind:
- Always stay clear of any downed power line or anything that might be in contact with the power line. Report downed lines to REC and call 911.
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To report an outage, visit myrec.coop/out, use the MyREC SmartHub app or text OUT to 63273
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Track outage restoration efforts in REC’s: myrec.coop/outagecenter.
- If your backup power plan includes using a generator, be sure to follow all safety guidelines including:
- Isolate your generator from REC’s power lines. Connect appliances or other devices directly to the generator with the appropriate cords.
- If you connect it directly to your building's wiring, a generator transfer switch is required to separate your generator from the co-op's system.
- Take care when fueling your generator. Never refuel the unit while it's operating.
- Provide adequate ventilation and air cooling for the generator to prevent overheating and the accumulation of toxic fumes. Do not install your generator in a closed area. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous.
Photos from the Field
Culpeper County
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