Winter Storm Fern has caused significant disruptions in the Carolinas, with Duke Energy reporting 18,016 customers without power as of 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 25. The company has restored electricity to 24,864 customers but expects outage numbers to rise due to ongoing freezing rain and sleet that continue to bring down trees and power lines.
Duke Energy serves approximately 4.7 million electric customers across North Carolina and South Carolina. As of the latest update, North Carolina accounts for 14,802 outages while South Carolina reports 3,214.
Rick Canavan, Duke Energy storm director, said: “Winter Storm Fern is still creating dangerous conditions across the Carolinas, and we expect outage numbers to rise as ice keeps bringing down trees and power lines.” He added: “Ice damage can continue long after the storm itself passes. Even as skies clear, ice can make falling tree branches 30 times heavier and much more likely to break power lines and poles.” Canavan also noted: “We have crews positioned across the region – some are already restoring power, while others remain ready to move in as soon as conditions allow.” He continued: “Once it’s safe, many of our workers will assess damage and restore power in tandem – not in sequence – so customers will see additional progress as soon as crews can reach areas safely.”
Duke Energy has deployed over 18,000 personnel including lineworkers, vegetation specialists, damage assessors and support staff for restoration efforts. The company uses a staged approach that prioritizes repairs on transmission lines and critical infrastructure before addressing smaller outages at neighborhood or individual levels.
The utility company warns that outages could last several days due to hazardous road conditions impeding access for repair crews. Estimated restoration times will be provided once assessments are complete.
Customers are advised to stay away from downed or sagging power lines and use generators according to manufacturer instructions. Motorists should observe “move over” laws when approaching emergency vehicles working on restoration efforts.
Duke Energy recommends several energy-saving measures for those with power during this period of cold weather—such as setting thermostats lower where comfortable; keeping air filters clean; utilizing natural sunlight during daytime hours; closing blinds at night; and operating ceiling fans clockwise in winter.
For updates on current outages visit duke-energy.com/OutageMap or find storm safety tips at duke-energy.com/StormTips. Additional information about Duke Energy’s operations is available at duke-energy.com.
