Unitil Corporation, (www.unitil.com), a provider of natural gas and electricity to customers in New England, is focusing on public safety, damage assessment and power restoration as a result of the strong winds and rain that impacted the region overnight.
As of 10 a.m., approximately 21,085 customers are without power, down from a peak of approximately 25,000. Of those, approximately 40 customers are out in Massachusetts, with 6,320 in the Capital region and 14,730 on the Seacoast of New Hampshire. Estimated times of restoration will be provided after damage assessment is complete, however, an extended restoration is anticipated due to the extent of the damage.
The damage from downed trees and limbs to the electric infrastructure was extensive as a result of the overnight wind storm. We are working closely with municipal officials across the region to address all public safety issues. This time of year can create unique challenges with leaves and debris covering fallen power lines. We urge the public to take great caution, stay away from downed lines and pooled water, and report any issues to emergency officials.”
Unitil Media Relations Manager, Alec O’Meara
Forecasts indicate winds will remain strong into the afternoon hours. Restoration is occurring where possible, though bucket trucks are unable to extend arms for safety reasons in high wind, further slowing response. Unitil secured additional crews in advance of the storm and new crews are joining the restoration effort from Canada.
In the event of downed wires, assume all cables and wires that have fallen or dangling are energized and stay away. Be sure to avoid wet ground or puddles near a downed lined because water conducts electricity. In addition, keep away from all flooded and debris laden areas because they may be hiding downed lines. Stay in a safe place and avoid driving in damaged areas so you don’t interfere with rescue and restoration efforts.
Unitil will be communicating throughout the event through Public Service Announcements (PSAs), our website, our customer call center and through the media. We also encourage customers to follow along with our storm updates via Facebook, our Twitter feed (@Unitil) and we will be providing real-time outage information online at www.unitil.com/map.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR MEDIA: Unitil asks that when reporting outage information, outlets time stamp the information. Outage numbers change hourly and we wish to make sure the information customers receive is consistent and understandable. Re-Tweets and re-posting of old information without referencing a time can create confusion.
Customers experiencing outages should call the following toll-free numbers:
- For the NH Seacoast Area: 1-800-582-7276
- For the NH Capital Area: 1-800-852-3339
- For Massachusetts: 1-888-301-7700
You can also report outages online at unitil.com/report-outage.
