Possible Ice Storm May Cause Power Outages

Customers of Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation should be prepared for the possibility of power outages on Thursday or Friday as a result of an ice storm that may impact the Mid-Hudson Valley.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), sleet and freezing rain may develop later this week as precipitation continues and temperatures begin to fall, with the possibility of ice accumulations on trees and electric facilities that may cause power outages. The NWS also indicates that the type of precipitation could vary with the timing and track of the storm, and the heaviest precipitation is expected to occur from Thursday afternoon through Friday morning.

Customers can prepare for the possibility electric service interruptions by:

• Keeping a flashlight and fresh batteries handy;
• Having a battery-powered radio to keep informed of restoration efforts;
• Stocking water and packaged or canned foods that require no refrigeration or cooking. Avoid opening your refrigerator unnecessarily during outages, so food lasts longer;
• Ensuring adequate supplies of prescription medications and other necessities.

If power is lost, contact Central Hudson’s automated PowerLine at (845) 452-2700 or 1-800-527-2714. Central Hudson will provide restoration updates to the local news media, and customers may check on the status of repairs on-line. Customers should also keep safety in mind by:

• Keeping away from downed power lines;
• Avoiding the use of candles for illumination;
• Following the manufacturer’s safety instructions on the use of emergency generators, and operating the units outdoors;
• Never using outdoor gas or charcoal grills indoors, as they pose a fire hazard and over time can give off deadly carbon monoxide gas. Use these appliances only outdoors with proper ventilation.

For more information on how to prepare for storms that may affect electric service, steps to take if power lost and to check on repair status, visit www.CentralHudson.com, and click on the Outages button.

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