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BOSTON – With heavy rain and high winds expected to impact Massachusetts leading into the Christmas holiday weekend, Eversource is closely monitoring several weather forecasts and planning accordingly. The combination of soaking rain and strong winds can more easily bring down trees and tree limbs onto power lines and equipment causing outages. The energy company’s line and tree crews are preparing equipment and vehicles so they can quickly respond when and where needed. Eversource is also bringing in hundreds of outside crews in addition to the regular complement of contractors to assist with restoring power if needed.
“We recognize the timing of this storm, right before Christmas, is less than ideal and we’re taking all necessary actions now so our team is ready to respond to whatever this storm may bring,” said Eversource President of Regional Electric Operations Craig Hallstrom. “We’ll have crews prepositioned at our work centers throughout the state before the storm hits so they can immediately get to any damage locations and restore power as quickly as possible. Our employees who work in the field and behind the scenes are ready to give up their holiday time off to ensure that our customers can enjoy their Christmas weekend.”
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Customers are encouraged to prepare for the storm by assembling or restocking a storm kit which should include essentials like flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishable foods, pet food and any needed medications. In addition, make sure cell phones and devices are fully charged, create an emergency plan with family members and prepare to check on elderly neighbors and friends.
Eversource reminds customers to always stay clear of downed wires and to report them immediately to 9-1-1. Be sure to report any outage online at Eversource.com, or by calling 800-592-2000 in Eastern MA and or by calling 877-659-6326 in Western MA.
Customers who signed up for the company’s two-way texting feature can send a text to report an outage and receive outage updates as they happen.
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As this storm is expected to deliver heavy rains, Eversource also reminds customers flooding can cause damage to a home furnace or other natural gas appliances and some natural gas heating systems may be affected in the event of a power interruption.
If flooding is severe, natural gas appliances should not be used until inspected by a licensed plumber or contractor.
Once that is completed, Eversource can turn gas service back on and safely relight appliances.
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