As mayfly season approaches along Lake Erie, FirstEnergy Corp. is collaborating with local municipalities to enhance road safety by addressing the swarms of insects attracted to light. Mayflies, known for their short lifespan and tendency to create slick road conditions due to their oily residue, emerge in late June and can be a concern until September.
In response, Ohio Edison will temporarily suspend streetlight service on several roads in Port Clinton, Marblehead, and Erie Township during this period. “Mayflies pose a significant safety concern due to the oily residue their carcasses leave behind, which can make road surfaces extremely slick, particularly during rain,” said Torrence Hinton, President of FirstEnergy Ohio. He added that turning off streetlights aims to deter the insects from gathering and improve road safety.
The lifecycle of mayflies begins in Lake Erie’s mud before they emerge as adults living only 24 to 72 hours. The company assures that streetlight services will resume once it is safe after the hatching season ends. Hinton emphasized the importance of ensuring community safety while acknowledging the role of streetlights.
Pedestrians and bikers are advised to exercise caution on unlit roads by using sidewalks, crosswalks, and wearing bright clothing or flashing devices. Drivers should reduce speed and stay alert for pedestrians and cyclists.
Residents noticing unintended outages are encouraged to report them online or via phone. Ohio Edison provides services across 34 counties in Ohio. FirstEnergy Corp., serving over six million customers across multiple states, emphasizes its commitment to integrity and operational excellence.
For further information or concerns regarding media or investor inquiries, contact Hannah Catlett at (440) 554-5346 or Karen Sagot at (330) 761-4286.
