Most of Rappahannock Electric Cooperative’s (REC) service area has dodged potential power outages from recent winter storms, but a potential ice storm this weekend threatens to snap that trend.
The Cooperative urges you to take steps now to stay safe due to the possibility of power outages. An Ice Storm Warning is in effect through Sunday for portions of REC’s service territory from Louisa and Hanover County then east toward Tappahannock.
The forecast calls for freezing rain to leave a quarter inch or more of ice on all outdoor surfaces. That much ice on top of the snow that is already weighing down trees and some power lines could cause serious damage and power outages. Other areas in REC’s service territory could also see freezing rain with less of an impact from ice accumulations.
REC’s crews, contractors and vegetation management team members are all on standby and ready to respond to any power outages. As always, they will make needed repairs and restore service as quickly and safely as possible.
REC asks member-owners to prepare now as well.
Make sure you have flashlights and fresh batteries. Gather extra blankets and additional layers of clothing in case they are needed, and charge all electronics such as cell phones. Ensure you have a back-up heat source or have a plan in the event that extended outages occur. For more tips on how to prepare, click here.
Report power outages at www.myrec.coop/out or in MyREC SmartHub. Outages can also be reported by calling 1-800-552-3904. If someone in your home requires electricity for a serious medical condition, identify an alternate location with power that you can rely on during an outage.
Casey Hollins, director of communications and public relations at REC said, “It’s important to take this latest ice threat seriously and prepare for the real possibility of a power outages that could extend over multiple days.”
