REC Prepares to Respond to Ice-Related Outages in Western Region
Monday | February 15, 2021

As the Eastern and Southern portions of Virginia continue to recover from a major ice storm late last week, another ice event is in the forecast to impact the north and northwestern region of the state and REC service territory today and Thursday. 

Ice and icy road conditions have already been reported in the areas around REC’s Blue Ridge office located in Front Royal, and more precipitation is the forecast for later this evening and Thursday. A wintry mix of precipitation, including freezing rain, could accumulate on trees and power lines, potentially leading to extended power outages in areas from Culpeper and as far north as Frederick and Clarke counties. 

REC’s crews are on stand by and are ready to respond to any weather-related outages. REC also has reached out to mutual-aid contractors, who are prepared to assist in outage restoration as needed. 

Member-owners are urged 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 power outages occur. For more tips on how to prepare, visit myrec.coop/stormprep.  

Report power outages at 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, consider identifying an alternate location with power that you can rely on during an outage. 

“Freezing rain and ice can lead to downed trees and power lines leading to power outages,” said Casey Hollins, director of communications and public relations. “It’s important to prepare before the storm. Please take the steps now to gather the items you would need for power outages that could extend over multiple days.”

Truck

REC STORIES

Meet CARE Charity Board Member: Sheryl Reid

Monday | September 15, 2025
Sheryl Reid may have been born in Iowa, but it’s Clarke County, Va., that she has called home since she was 12. Her rural roots helped shape her stron...
National 811 Day is August 11 (8/11), a great reminder to click va811.com or call 811 to check for underground utility lines every time before you dig...
Tootie Rinker may have spent much of her childhood overseas, but her roots run deep in Winchester, VA.