New York State Electric & Gas and Rochester Gas and Electric say they are preparing for a round of winter weather expected to impact much of New York State early this week.
Forecasts call for a mix of snow, rain, wind, and ice, with hazardous conditions possible from Monday into Tuesday. Utility officials warn that strong winds could lead to scattered power outages in communities served by NYSEG and RG&E.
The National Weather Service is forecasting wind gusts of more than 50 miles per hour in parts of the state, particularly in Western New York Monday night. Areas that recently saw heavy snowfall could also experience rapid melting and localized flooding as rain moves in. Lake-effect snow is also possible across portions of Western and Central New York.
NYSEG and RG&E say they have been preparing for the storm for several days and have pre-positioned crews and equipment across the state. The companies report that 170 contract line crews are being staged statewide, including 80 in the Lancaster division, which covers Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, and Erie counties, and 50 in the Rochester area. Additional internal crews are also on standby.
Crews will be equipped with bucket trucks, auger trucks, wood chippers, dump trucks, and backhoes to respond to storm-related outages and damage.
Customers are encouraged to stay informed through the companies websites, social media pages, and mobile apps. NYSEG and RG&E also recommend that customers sign up for outage alerts by phone, text, or email to receive updates during the storm.
Utility officials are also reminding the public to take safety precautions ahead of and during the storm. Customers are urged to keep flashlights, radios, drinking water, and non-perishable food on hand, charge mobile devices in advance, and ensure vehicles have adequate fuel.
Residents are advised to stay at least 30 feet away from downed power lines and to report any hazardous situations to their utility provider. NYSEG customers can call 1-800-572-1131, while RG&E customers can call 1-800-743-1701.
During power outages, customers are encouraged to check with neighbors to confirm whether the outage is widespread and to keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to preserve food.
NYSEG and RG&E say their first priority during storm response is public safety, including responding to reports of downed wires. Once those hazards are addressed, crews will assess damage, develop a restoration plan, and work to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
The companies say they will continue to provide updates throughout the storm event as conditions develop and restoration efforts begin.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
