Greater Columbus experiencing thousands of power outages after storms

Micah Walker, The Columbus Dispatch
·3 min read
AEP Ohio stated more than 145,000 customers are without power across the state due to high winds and lightening taking down trees and power lines.
AEP Ohio stated more than 145,000 customers are without power across the state due to high winds and lightening taking down trees and power lines.

After thunderstorms made their way through Greater Columbus Monday night and early Tuesday morning, thousands of people across Greater Columbus are left in the dark.

Power outage update: Widespread AEP power outages affecting more than 146,000, including 60,000 in Columbus

AEP Ohio stated in a Twitter post shortly before 8 a.m. that more than 145,000 customers were without power across the state due to high winds and lightning taking down trees and power lines. However, crews restored power for 10,000 customers overnight.

In Greater Columbus, 2,300 customers are without power as of Tuesday morning, said Karen Salajko, a communications specialist for AEP Ohio.

One area hit hardest by the storms locally was Main Street and Cleveland Avenue in Westerville, where 3,285 customers were without power.

Other major outages include New Albany-Condit Road near New Albany, with 1,864 customers without power, 229 customers outages on Davidson Road in Hilliard and 152 customer outages near Avery Road in Hilliard.

She said 95% of customers in the area should have their power restored by 11 p.m. Tuesday, but many will see it restored before then.

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More: Weather: Look out for storms before a scorcher of a week rolls in for Greater Columbus

What to do during a power outage

An AEP Ohio worker works on a pole near Washington Square in Bucyrus on Monday morning.
An AEP Ohio worker works on a pole near Washington Square in Bucyrus on Monday morning.

For those who are experiencing a power outage, they can sign up for text alerts with AEP Ohio, download the company's mobile app to check outage status and restoration information, or follow AEP Ohio on Facebook and Twitter.

Other tips to keep in mind include:

  • Customers can report outages by visiting AEPOhio.com or by calling 800-672-2231.

  • Try not to open the freezer or refrigerator.

  • Generators should be used only in well-ventilated space. Never use one inside.

  • Keep flashlights with fresh batteries close by.

  • The bathtub can be used to hold water if water service has been lost.

  • Stay away from downed power lines and call 911 and AEP to report them immediately.

  • Homeowners are responsible for electrical equipment attached to the house. AEP Ohio is responsible for wires, service lines and facilities that deliver electricity to your house and meters that measure electricity use.

More: What to do about a power or internet outage: Tips from Columbus providers

More storms coming later this week

According to the National Weather Service, there is a 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms Tuesday in Greater Columbus. The chance for precipitation grows on Thursday, with showers and thunderstorms likely after 2 p.m.

Temperatures will continue to stay hot this week, with Tuesday's high reaching 95 degrees and a heat index as high as 109. Wednesday will get up to 97 degrees, with a heat index of 106 while Thursday will get up to 95 degrees.

Power out? What happens to the food in your refrigerator and freezer?

Micah Walker is the Dispatch trending reporter. Reach her at mwalker@dispatch.com or 740-251-7199. Follow her on Twitter @micah_walker701. 

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Thousands left in the dark after thunderstorms hit Greater Columbus