Central Hudson Storm Restoration Update

            Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation has implemented an around-the-clock massive restoration effort to re-energize electric service to the approximately 85,000 customers who were impacted by the Nor’easter that dumped more than a foot of heavy, wet snow in portions of the Hudson Valley region. Officials warned customers who live in hardest-hit areas, particularly those in remote locations, that they may be without power for several days and that they should make alternate arrangements for shelter. Emergency shelters have already been established at the Kerhonkson Fire Department at 333 Main Street in Kerhonkson, Hurley Reformed Church in Hurley, and The Health and Wellness Center at SUNY New Paltz.

            Outages exist in all eight counties served by the utility, though most of the worst widespread damage occurred in the Greene, Albany, Ulster and northern Dutchess counties, where the heaviest snow accumulation fell on trees and equipment. Due to the extreme nature of the damage in remote locations, it is impossible to assess when service will be restored to all customers. As of mid-afternoon, it is estimated that approximately 33,000 customers are without service in Dutchess and southern Columbia counties; 30,000 in Ulster County; about 7,000 in Orange County; and approximately 16,000 in Greene County.

            Central Hudson has mobilized assessment teams to determine the extent of damage in order to chart the most effective recovery plan. More than 60 Central Hudson line crews have swung into action to make repairs, and more than 30 line crews are enroute from private companies to assist in the operation; they will be aided by approximately 60 tree-trimming crews who will be charged with clearing roadways and off-road locations in order to provide access for repair personnel.

            Those customers with access to a computer or compatible cell phone should report their power condition via the utility’s website, www.centralhudson.com, by using the StormCentral function. There, they can also access information regarding the extent of outages; once service restoration estimates become available, they will be found on the website as well. Please note that due to the extensive nature of the damage caused by this storm, projected restoration information may not be available for all locations via that system for several days. Customers may also contact the utility by calling (845) 452-2700 or 1 (800) 527-2714 to report a power outage, and they are encouraged to use the automated reporting system to do so.

            The six major transmission lines that were impacted overnight have been restored to service and crews are focusing on repairing distribution circuits. Restoration efforts continue to be hampered by road and weather conditions.  Central Hudson officials noted that a second storm front is forecast for Thursday and possibly Friday, with the potential to interrupt service again.

            Customers are reminded to stay clear of downed or sagging wires – they could be lethal. As fallen wires may be hidden by trees or debris, extreme caution should be used when moving through an outage zone.  If a power line falls on a vehicle, occupants should stay inside and wait for rescue crews. Customers should not heat their homes with an unvented heater, gas range or any similar appliance, as they can produce deadly carbon monoxide. Generators should be operated only in a vented, dry location; outdoor gas grills should never be used to heat indoors because they pose a fire hazard and can give off deadly carbon monoxide gas.

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