#United States #FirstEnergy #Pennsylvania #Severe Storms #Greenburg

FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Readies for Impact of Severe Weather

FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Company, also known as Penn Power, Penelec, Met-Ed, and West Penn Power, is bracing for another significant round of severe weather. This anticipated system is set to sweep through the state on Wednesday night and Thursday, representing the fourth substantial storm event in just 12 days.

The company is currently monitoring the developing weather conditions closely. Forecasts indicate that some areas could experience wind gusts of up to 65 mph, raising concerns about fallen trees and branches that may damage power lines. To facilitate effective restoration efforts and to react swiftly to potential power outages, FirstEnergy is mobilizing a considerable workforce. This deployment will include additional line crews, forestry teams, and damage assessment teams to bolster their existing personnel prepared for 24/7 operations.

John Hawkins, President of FirstEnergy, stated, “This has been an extraordinary stretch of severe weather, and we are fully mobilized to meet whatever this next system brings. All hands are on deck, and additional resources are in place so that we can respond to damage quickly, assess conditions in real time, and restore power as safely and efficiently as possible.”

Recent Severe Weather Trends

The last two weeks have been particularly eventful, with multiple major weather systems affecting the area. As noted by the National Weather Service, 14 tornadoes have been confirmed in this short span, alongside heavy rains, high winds, and lightning. Such extreme weather has resulted in widespread and complex damage that requires extensive restoration efforts.

To efficiently manage this ongoing situation, FirstEnergy Pennsylvania has activated its incident command structure, which allows teams across the service area to coordinate restoration tasks, equipment provisioning, and field support as conditions evolve.

FirstEnergy Georgia takes preventative measures year-round to ensure the reliability of its electric systems. This involves continual tree trimming to clear vegetation from power lines, thereby minimizing outages. Furthermore, the company has invested in significant upgrades to strengthen the grid while conducting routine aerial inspections to identify and rectify potential hazards before they impact service.

Investment for the Future

Through its Energize365 initiative, FirstEnergy is committed to investing approximately $13 billion between 2026 and 2030 to develop a smarter, more resilient grid capable of meeting the changing needs of communities and enduring increasingly severe weather patterns.

Tips for Safety and Preparedness

As storms approach, FirstEnergy encourages customers to stay vigilant and prepared. Here are some key safety tips:

• - Maintain at least 30 feet of distance from downed power lines and call 911 right away.
• - Secure loose outdoor items, including trash containers, furniture, and trampolines.
• - Ensure your mobile phones and essential devices are charged.
• - Keep flashlights, batteries, and a radio within easy reach.
• - Stock up on water if your home relies on a well pump.
• - Have non-perishable foods available.
• - Avoid trees and utility poles during high winds.

Reporting Outages

If customers experience power loss during the storm, reporting the outage can be done via multiple methods:

• - Call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877)
• - Send a text with the word OUT to LIGHTS (544487)
• - Visit the website firstenergycorp.com/outages for online reporting.

Stay Updated on Outages

Sign up for outage alerts by texting REG to 544487. Once enrolled, text STAT to 544487 to receive updates.
Additionally, customers can log into their online accounts and view outage maps at firstenergycorp.com/outages for the latest information.

With Met-Ed serving around 592,000 customers, Penelec covering about 597,000, and Penn Power providing electricity to approximately 173,000, FirstEnergy remains committed to operational excellence in serving its customers. West Penn Power also treats a substantial number of about 746,000 customers across central and southwestern Pennsylvania. Follow FirstEnergy for updates on social media as they navigate this challenging weather situation.