Associated Press
Duke Energy Florida has restored power to more than 99% of customers in Pasco County who lost electricity as a result of Hurricane Milton, a target that beats by hours the company’s estimate to have the vast majority of outages addressed by 11:59 p.m. Tuesday.
About 30,000 customers remain without power systemwide, after more than 1 million had lost it during the storm.
The remaining outages are largely concentrated in Pinellas County, as of 3 p.m., according to Duke.
Those still without power are primarily located in areas where damaged equipment serves fewer than 25 customers. Though work is nearing completion, crews continue working on restoration efforts to ensure all customers have their lights turned back on as soon as possible.
Many of the remaining outages are the result of malfunctioning devices located behind homes or in residential areas where access is limited, meaning lineworkers must climb poles rather than using bucket trucks.
“This has been a multiday restoration. All of us at Duke Energy understand the frustration of customers who remain without power,” Duke Energy Storm Director Todd Fountain said. “As we near completion, know we will not stop until all of our customers who can receive power are restored.”
Customers who do not have power restored by Duke’s estimated 11:59 p.m. deadline Tuesday will receive an individualized message through the company’s outage alerts via text or phone call.
Customers with extensive damage or whose properties flooded may require additional time for restoration and should be prepared for extended outages.
Customers who cannot receive power due to damage to the property’s meter, breaker panel or customer-owned electrical wiring must contact local municipalities and/or a licensed electrician for guidance on how to get power back. In some cases, inspections may be required after repairs are complete.
Duke Energy advises customers to stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. They should consider any lines energized, as well as any trees, limbs or other objects in contact with the lines.
Downed lines can be hard to spot in rain or standing water. Individuals who encounter standing water should avoid it and instead choose another path.
Those without power who are utilizing generators should follow all manufacturer instructions, including not using generators indoors. Generators should be turned off when crews are in the area.
Customers can remain up-to-date on restoration efforts by signing up for phone and text alerts by signing up online or texting REG to 57801. A mobile app is also available for updates.
