Janelle Irwin Taylor
Duke Energy Florida is already preparing for potential tropical storm conditions in the coming days as a system moves closer to Florida and is projected to make landfall somewhere along the Gulf Coast, potentially near the Tampa Bay area.
Tropical storm warnings are already in place for coastal areas south of Bonita Beach, with watches in effect along the Gulf coast north to Pinellas County.
The company says it is monitoring the system and taking preliminary steps to respond to possible widespread power outages resulting from heavy rains, strong winds and flooding.
“Our staff of meteorologists are closely monitoring weather conditions and we are making preparations with crews and equipment to respond quickly and safely should Florida customers experience any disruptions,” said Todd Fountain, Duke Energy Florida storm director. “While the storm’s path and intensity are still uncertain, we are prepared to respond, and we ask our customers to take this time to prepare for any potential impacts.”
Duke is offering suggestions to customers and other residents in the storm’s possible path.
Customers should already have a storm plan in place to ensure readiness for any power outages, even if extended. Kits might include things like medicine, water, non-perishable foods and other supplies that may be in high-demand once the storm passes. The plan should also include how to move family members, particularly those with special needs, to a safe location if there is an extended power outage.
Customers should charge cell phones, computers and other electronic devices ahead of the storm while power is still readily available.
Duke also recommends keeping a portable radio or television or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio handy to monitor weather forecasts and other important information from state and local officials.
Customers should also educate themselves on how Duke restores power. The company focuses its restoration efforts first on areas that impact public health and safety facilities, then in areas that restore service to the greatest number of people as quickly and safely as possible.
If anyone sees a downed power line, they should take precautions. Stay away from downed lines or those that are sagging. Individuals should consider all lines energized, as well as anything such as trees or limbs that they are in contact with.
If a line falls on a vehicle an individual is operating, they should stay in the car. If staying in the vehicle is not an option due to fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, occupants should do their best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet, ensuring that no part of their body is touching the car when feet hit the ground.
Customers can report outages by texting “OUT” to 57801, or on Duke’s website or mobile app. Outages can also be reported by phone at 800-343-3525.
