Duke Energy prepares for winter storm, urges customers to do same

PLAINFIELD – Duke Energy is monitoring and preparing for a winter storm system that is expected to cause power outages later this week. A mix of dangerously low temperatures, high winds and snow is predicted to move across Indiana beginning late Thursday evening and continuing through Friday evening.

Snow on its own typically has little to no impact on the electric system. However, high winds may bring down trees, limbs and power lines, while below-freezing temperatures result in increased stress on the power grid.

These types of winter storms can also create hazardous driving conditions, which could impede Duke Energy workers’ ability to assess storm damage and restore power. Crews are prepared and will work as quickly as possible to restore power, however, expected high winds will also restrict some restoration efforts.

“As Duke Energy meteorologists are tracking this significant winter weather event, crews are preparing to restore power as safely and quickly as possible,” Duke Energy Midwest Storm Director Anthony Brown said, “Our top priority is to keep our customers informed and urge them to prepare in advance.”

Customers are encouraged to maintain a plan to move family members – especially those with special needs – to a safe, alternative location in case an extended power outage occurs, or evacuation is required.

Crews will work diligently to restore power in impacted communities as quickly as possible. As restoration begins, the first priority is to repair large power lines and other infrastructure that will return power to the greatest number of customers as safely, quickly and efficiently as possible. Crews then can work on repairs affecting individual neighborhoods and homes.