CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Appalachian Power is preparing for the potential of scattered power outages as severe weather capable of producing damaging winds, isolated tornadoes and flash flooding is expected to move across parts of its service territory Tuesday into late Tuesday night.
The company said its Storm Response Team is closely monitoring the system, with crews prepared to respond across West Virginia, northeastern Tennessee and southwest Virginia.
“The forecasted 70 mph wind gusts will topple trees, including those outside our right-of-way, which will down power lines,” said David Robinson, APCo’s major storm incident commander. “We encourage our customers to prepare now for the possibility of an extended power outage.”
According to the utility, strong winds are expected to be the primary cause of outages, with fallen trees and limbs damaging power lines.
Robinson also said Appalachian Power’s proactive vegetation management strategy routinely targets high-risk areas to help reduce the impact of severe weather on the electric system.
The company encourages customers to review storm safety information before severe weather arrives and reminds customers they can report outages and safety hazards through the Appalachian Power mobile app or on the company’s website.
