GMP restores power to 34,000 and 16,600 remain out

Green Mountain Power crews worked through the night restoring power to more than 34,000 customers, but 16,600 remain without power at 12:30 pm (SEE TABLE BELOW). New outages continue to occur Wednesday morning, as the heavy snow weighs down tree branches onto power lines, causing significant damage to the electrical system. As GMP responds to the current storm, another one is heading to Vermont today, bringing the likelihood of additional outages and longer restoration times.

“Our dedicated crews are working around the clock to get the lights on as quickly as possible. This storm hit really hard, causing massive damage to the system, breaking many poles that require lengthy repair to reset and lines that need to be re-strung,” said Dorothy Schnure, GMP spokesperson. “Our advance preparation served our customers well, allowing us to restore power to many, and with daylight and fresh crews we will ramp up the response even more.”

Green Mountain Power lined up crews from Canada and the surrounding states to support GMP lineworkers and staff. Even with an army of crews responding, the severe damage means that power restoration efforts will continue through Friday and Saturday, especially in the areas hardest hit, which includes Windsor and Rutland counties, which sustained the most damage. Today’s snow storm will likely extend the time needed to restore power, as new outages are expected.

“Safety for our crews and customers is uppermost in our mind today as we restore power as quickly as we can,” Schnure said. “Trees have brought down lines across the state and we urge people to stay away from any line, as it could be energized and dangerous.” More than 300 line workers are working to restore power, with 40 more arriving from southern New England to join the effort. They are supported by an army of tree trimmers and GMP support staff working to restore power as safely and quickly as possible.

Customers are advised if they need shelter to stay safe and warm, they should call 211 to reach emergency coordinators or the Red Cross at 802-660-9130.

As the storm progresses, GMP will keep customers updated through Facebook, Twitter and media announcements. Customers may sign up for text service to report outages and get updates. Simply text REG to 46788 or GMPVT, or sign up online at greenmountainpower.com/textalerts. As always, customers may report outages by calling 1-888-835-4672, or visiting GMP’s Outage Center page at www.greenmountainpower.com. Statewide, see www.vtoutages.org

Source: GMP 12.10.2014