Approximately 2,500 remain without power as crews continue storm restoration efforts

As of 6:30 am Tuesday., cooperative personnel are working to restore power to approximately 2500 members who remain without electricity following Winter Storm Hernando. Monday, crews from other areas of the state arrived to assist ANEC in restoring power. Overnight the number of outages in both counties was cut in half. ANEC prioritizes repairs that will affect the most customers first and will be working on the smaller outages as quickly as they can,

A&N Electric Cooperative said in a statement that outage numbers fluctuated  yesterday dthroughout the day as crews battled strong winds and heavy snow weighing down trees and electrical equipment.Crews continue restoration efforts around the clock and will do so until all service is restored.

Cooperative members experiencing outages are encouraged to report them through one of the following methods:

– The cooperative’s SmartHub app
– Texting OUT to (855) 940-4016
– Calling (757) 787-9750

Officials emphasized that outages or hazardous situations should not be reported through social media. Members are also encouraged to report their outage again if they remain without service.

Due to the severity of the storm, downed power lines are possible. Residents are urged to stay a safe distance away from any fallen lines and to report them immediately to the cooperative or by calling 911. All downed lines should be treated as if they are energized.

Motorists are advised not to drive over fallen lines in roadways. Instead, drivers should maintain a safe distance and wait for trained electric crews to address the hazard.

Officials also encourage residents to check their main outside breaker, if applicable, in the event of a power loss. A tripped breaker may result in an outage affecting only a single home. Resetting breakers before reporting an outage can help reduce unnecessary service calls during widespread events.

While portable generators can provide relief during extended outages, officials warn they must be used safely. Generators produce carbon monoxide and should be placed at least 20 feet away from homes. Exhaust should be directed away from windows and doors, and generators should never be operated inside enclosed spaces such as garages or basements. Proper ventilation space must always be maintained.

Restoration updates are expected as crews continue efforts across the service area.