Last Updated on October 6, 2024 7:12 pm
Lenoir, North Carolina (Sunday, 6:30 pm – October 6, 2024) – Blue Ridge Energy’s army of 500 line technicians, tree specialists, and grading contractors continue strong efforts to restore power to members in the wake of the worst storm to hit western North Carolina in decades.
As of Sunday, 6:30 pm, outages have fallen to 9,957 from a high of 63,000 outages when the storm first hit over a week ago. Much of Blue Ridge Energy’s infrastructure was washed away by flooding, and mudslides or demolished by hundreds of fallen trees and raging swift water.
Restoration efforts will continue in full force until every member has power, said Renee Walker, director of public relations. The cooperative also wants to take an opportunity to thank the public.
“Tonight, while we continue restoration work with our army of crews, we express our gratitude and say a sincere “thank you” for the community outpouring of support and encouragement,” Walker said. “So many have helped feed, house and take care of our crews in ways too many to list. Your thoughts and prayers for those in the field and all employees working behind the scenes supporting the effort is energizing.”
The cooperative reminds the public there are still many safety concerns and asks the public to be aware of the following:
Downed Power Line Safety
- Downed power lines can still be energized and therefore dangerous, or even deadly, so stay far away. Downed lines can be hidden underneath fallen trees, water and other affected structures so stay alert and use caution around these areas. Only a trained line technician should ever go near a downed power line. Report downed lines by calling 1-800-451-5474.
Protect Line Workers:
- Move over if you see line technicians or trucks working on roadsides. This is especially difficult work under current conditions with many roads washed out, severely damaged, or down to one lane roads. Please slow down for your safety and the protection of all those working to restore power.
- Be alert for flaggers and other traffic directions and indications of work under way.
- Don’t drive distracted. Road damage and debris is scattered throughout the area.
Generator Safety:
- The only safe way to connect a portable generator to your home’s wiring is to have a licensed electrical contractor install a transfer switch.
- Never connect a generator to your home’s electrical system. It can “backfeed” and potentially harm or kill line technicians working on power lines.
- Keep generators away from water.
- Always turn off a generator and let it cool down before refueling.
- Never use a generator inside your home or garage. Install a carbon monoxide detector for added safety.
To check outage status
- Call 1-800-451-5474 to speak with a member service representative
- Link to live outage map: https://bremco.maps.sienatech.com/
- Refer to general restoration estimates atwww.BlueRidgeEnergy.com
- Report new outages by calling 1-800-448-2383
- Use our Blue Ridge Energy mobile app
- Text “OUT” to 70216 if your mobile number is on your account
Blue Ridge Energy serves some 80,000 members in Caldwell, Watauga, Ashe, and Alleghany counties as well as parts of Avery, Alexander and Wilkes counties. Learn more at www.BlueRidgeEnergy.com or on the cooperative’s social media on Facebook, X and Instagram.
