Thunderstorms, high winds could cause power outages in Southern Tier: What to expect

Jeff Smith, The Leader
·2 min read

Showers and thunderstorms could hit the Southern Tier at about 11 p.m. Wednesday and continue throughout the weekend, according to the National Weather Service, leading electric companies to prepare for potential power outages.

New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch are expected, with higher amounts possible from the thunderstorms, officials said. Showers and thunderstorms are likely before 2 p.m. Thursday, then a chance of showers.

Residents may experience service disruptions as a result of widespread thunderstorms and high winds expected to impact Southern Tier areas, according to the New York State Electric & Gas and Rochester Gas and Electric.

Severe thunderstorms are expected to bring damaging wind gusts Wednesday, April 5, 2023.
Severe thunderstorms are expected to bring damaging wind gusts Wednesday, April 5, 2023.

The storms are expected to impact the entire NYSEG and RG&E footprint — which includes Rochester, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, North Country, Capital Region, Hudson Valley and Westchester regions — at some point throughout the week, according to NYSEG officials.

NYSEG and RG&E have pre-staged additional crews and equipment across the state in preparation for the storm to restore any downed lines and power interruptions in the communities served.

The strong winds and rain associated with the storms have the potential to bring down trees and limbs, causing damage to overhead power lines and other electrical equipment, officials said. The companies urge customers to monitor forecasts and prepare for the possibility of service interruptions.

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Power outage safety tips and reminders

  • NYSEG customers can sign up for Outage Alerts to receive updates automatically by phone, text, or email as the companies update the status of the restoration process in their area. Visit nyseg.com/alerts to sign up.

  • Keep battery-operated flashlights and radios on hand, along with supplies of drinking water and non-perishable foods.

  • Make sure electronic devices like phones and tablets are fully charged.

  • Fill your car’s fuel tank.

  • In the event of downed power lines, stay at least 30 feet away and call 800.572.1131 to report downed power lines or other hazardous situations.

  • If a downed wire comes in contact with your vehicle, stay inside and wait for help. If you must get out because of fire or other danger, jump clear of the vehicle to avoid any contact with the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Land with your feet together and hop with feet together or shuffle away; don’t run or stride.

  • To report a power interruption, contact NYSEG at 800.572.1131.

  • Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible. Most food will last 24 hours if you minimize the opening of refrigerator and freezer doors.

This article originally appeared on The Leader: Southern Tier NY weather: Thunderstorms, high winds threaten region