WEST VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – Appalachian Power reports significant progress in restoring electric service following Sunday’s severe storm, which brought heavy rains and damaging winds to the region.
As of Monday morning, 65% of customers who experienced outages have had their power restored.
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Storm Impact
The storm caused widespread outages, particularly in West Virginia, where most of the damage occurred. Wind speeds averaged 45 mph, with some gusts reaching nearly 70 mph.
Approximately 19,000 customers lost power at the peak of the storm.
Current Outages
As of 9 a.m., 6,400 customers in West Virginia remain without power. The hardest-hit counties include Boone, Cabell, Jackson, Marshall, and Ohio.
In Virginia, nearly all 2,200 affected customers have had their service restored.
Restoration Efforts
Appalachian Power crews, assisted by contractors and workers from Virginia, are working around the clock to repair downed lines and damaged equipment.
Restoration timelines for key West Virginia areas include:
|
Area |
Customers Out |
Estimated Restoration |
|
Madison |
380 |
10 p.m., Dec. 30 |
|
Charleston |
360 |
10 p.m., Dec. 30 |
|
Beckley |
260 |
10 p.m., Dec. 30 |
|
Wheeling |
2,000 |
11 p.m., Dec. 30 |
|
Huntington |
870 |
11 p.m., Dec. 30 |
Challenges and Safety Concerns
Crews are working under favorable weather conditions today but remain cautious of wind speeds and extreme cold temperatures, which can cause line overloads.
Customers are advised to reduce their electricity usage when power is restored to prevent overloading the system.
Safety remains a top priority. Appalachian Power urges residents to avoid downed lines and report them immediately by calling 911 and Appalachian Power at 1-800-956-4237.
