Duke Energy Faces Power Outages in Carolinas Amid Winter Storm Fern's Icy Grip
As Winter Storm Fern persists across the Carolinas, Duke Energy is grappling with a significant number of power outages due to hazardous conditions created by ice and freezing rain. The storm has led to substantial damage, bringing down trees, limbs, and power lines, which has left more than 18,000 customers without electricity. With low temperatures in the forecast, Duke Energy warns that additional outages may occur even after the storm subsides. The company is actively restoring power to those affected and is employing various strategies to ensure safety and efficiency.
As of Sunday, January 25, 2026, Duke Energy has restored electricity to approximately 24,864 customers but reports that 18,016 are still without power. Workers are diligently assessing the damage in areas that have not yet been safely accessible due to treacherous road conditions. To facilitate quicker restoration efforts, Duke Energy has utilized self-healing technology, allowing them to reroute electricity away from damaged lines.
The utility company has deployed extensive resources, comprising over 18,000 professionals, including lineworkers, vegetation specialists, and damage assessors. Their restoration protocol involves systematically addressing larger outages first, such as transmission lines and substations, followed by neighborhood lines. Duke Energy emphasizes that the absence of utility trucks in specific neighborhoods does not indicate inactivity. Crews may be engaged in repair activities at larger infrastructures upstream.
Rick Canavan, storm director at Duke Energy, highlighted the ongoing risks posed by the storm, stating, "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 also warned that damage could continue even when the storm has cleared, as ice accumulation significantly increases the weight of tree branches, heightening the likelihood of breaking utility equipment.
As the situation evolves, Duke Energy advises customers to exercise caution around downed power lines and to utilize generators only according to manufacturer specifications. The company encourages those currently experiencing power interruptions to stay informed via their outage maps and updates.
In anticipation of frigid temperatures following the storm, Duke Energy has shared several energy-saving tips for customers who still have electricity. These include setting thermostats lower, ensuring air filters are clean, taking advantage of sunlight by opening blinds during the day, and using ceiling fans to circulate warm air more effectively.
Looking ahead, Duke Energy is prepared to continue its restoration efforts with additional out-of-state help on standby. As road conditions improve, lineworkers and additional support staff will be deployed to restore power in the hardest-hit areas. Customers can stay connected and informed about restoration work via Duke Energy's social media channels and their dedicated online resources.
The company's swift actions and comprehensive preparation illustrate their commitment to serving their 4.7 million electric customers across the Carolinas, of which 3.8 million are in North Carolina and approximately 860,000 in South Carolina. Amidst these icy challenges, Duke Energy remains focused on pursuing a smarter and more reliable energy future.
As of Sunday, January 25, 2026, Duke Energy has restored electricity to approximately 24,864 customers but reports that 18,016 are still without power. Workers are diligently assessing the damage in areas that have not yet been safely accessible due to treacherous road conditions. To facilitate quicker restoration efforts, Duke Energy has utilized self-healing technology, allowing them to reroute electricity away from damaged lines.
The utility company has deployed extensive resources, comprising over 18,000 professionals, including lineworkers, vegetation specialists, and damage assessors. Their restoration protocol involves systematically addressing larger outages first, such as transmission lines and substations, followed by neighborhood lines. Duke Energy emphasizes that the absence of utility trucks in specific neighborhoods does not indicate inactivity. Crews may be engaged in repair activities at larger infrastructures upstream.
Rick Canavan, storm director at Duke Energy, highlighted the ongoing risks posed by the storm, stating, "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 also warned that damage could continue even when the storm has cleared, as ice accumulation significantly increases the weight of tree branches, heightening the likelihood of breaking utility equipment.
As the situation evolves, Duke Energy advises customers to exercise caution around downed power lines and to utilize generators only according to manufacturer specifications. The company encourages those currently experiencing power interruptions to stay informed via their outage maps and updates.
In anticipation of frigid temperatures following the storm, Duke Energy has shared several energy-saving tips for customers who still have electricity. These include setting thermostats lower, ensuring air filters are clean, taking advantage of sunlight by opening blinds during the day, and using ceiling fans to circulate warm air more effectively.
Looking ahead, Duke Energy is prepared to continue its restoration efforts with additional out-of-state help on standby. As road conditions improve, lineworkers and additional support staff will be deployed to restore power in the hardest-hit areas. Customers can stay connected and informed about restoration work via Duke Energy's social media channels and their dedicated online resources.
The company's swift actions and comprehensive preparation illustrate their commitment to serving their 4.7 million electric customers across the Carolinas, of which 3.8 million are in North Carolina and approximately 860,000 in South Carolina. Amidst these icy challenges, Duke Energy remains focused on pursuing a smarter and more reliable energy future.
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