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Preparing for the 2025 Hurricane Season: Georgia Power's Commitment to Safety and Resilience

As of June 1, the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season is officially underway, marked by predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicating an above-average season. In light of this, Georgia Power is emphasizing the importance of preparedness and resilience in its operations to ensure safety for all its customers.

The Importance of Preparation

Georgia Power has made significant strides in recent years to enhance the reliability of the power grid across Georgia. Continuous investments in advanced technologies and infrastructure upgrades have been paramount in this effort. By installing smart, automated devices throughout the grid, Georgia Power can control its operations remotely. This technology is vital for rerouting power during emergencies, isolating problems, and minimizing the number of affected customers. Such improvements were crucial during Hurricane Helene, recognized as the most destructive storm Georgia Power has ever encountered.

Encouraging Customer Readiness

In conjunction with its internal preparations, Georgia Power is urging its customers to take necessary actions to safeguard their homes and families ahead of potential storms. Key resources have been made available to help residents stay informed and prepared during hurricane emergencies. Here’s how Georgia Power supports its customers:

• - Outage Alerts: Customers can opt into the free Georgia Power Outage Alert service, receiving personalized notifications and updates via text message. It's essential to keep contact details updated to ensure timely information delivery.
• - Outage & Storm Center: A dedicated section on the Georgia Power website provides customers with the ability to update contact information, check the status of outages, and access valuable safety tips.
• - Interactive Outage Map: The Outage Map shows real-time outage locations, helping customers understand where problems are occurring and when power restoration is expected.
• - Mobile App: Available on both Apple and Android, the app gives customers immediate access to storm-related information and outage updates.
• - Social Media: Georgia Power maintains an active presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), providing tips, updates, and customer support.

Safety Tips for Residents

Staying safe during storm seasons is paramount. Georgia Power emphasizes the following safety tips:

• - Watch for Utility Crews: If you see Georgia Power crews working on the roads, remember it’s the law in Georgia to move over a lane for utility vehicles stopped on the roadside.
• - Avoid Downed Wires: Never approach downed or low-hanging wires and always warn others to do the same. If you spot such hazards, immediately alert local authorities or Georgia Power.
• - Generator Safety: Portable generators should be used only in well-ventilated areas, and users should adhere strictly to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid any risks.

Reflecting on Hurricane Helene

The impact of Hurricane Helene in September 2024 reshaped Georgia Power's approach to storm readiness. The storm resulted in widespread power outages affecting over a million customers. In the aftermath, repair crews had to replace more than 11,000 power poles and over 5,000 transformers, with some areas requiring substantial grid rebuilding. Despite these challenges, Georgia Power has turned adversities into opportunities by upgrading to advanced systems.

In recognition of their efforts, the Edison Electric Institute presented Georgia Power with the Emergency Recovery Award, honoring the swift restoration services rendered post-Hurricane Helene. Kim Greene, the chairman and CEO of Georgia Power, expressed pride in the dedicated efforts of all employees, underlining their commitment to serving communities during such challenging times.

Looking Ahead

As we anticipate the effects of the 2025 Hurricane Season, Georgia Power is committed to ensuring the safety and reliability of its services. Continuous preparation, customer engagement, and strategic investments in technology are essential components of their readiness plan. For more information on preparedness plans and support, residents can visit GeorgiaPower.com/Storm and stay connected with Georgia Power through various communication channels. Together, Georgia Power and its customers can navigate through the hurricane season safely and effectively.