Electric cooperatives in Ohio reported on March 13 that more than 83,000 customers lost power as strong winds swept across the state. The National Weather Service recorded wind gusts up to 77 mph, with Columbus airport experiencing a gust of 71 mph just after 4 p.m.
The outages were mainly caused by snapped utility poles and substations losing power from transmission suppliers. Some areas, particularly in central Ohio, faced significant damage. One cooperative in northeast Ohio reported as many as 50 poles down during the peak of the storm.
Restoration efforts began immediately, with lineworkers working into the evening to restore service. However, due to the extent of the damage, some areas are expected to face multi-day restoration efforts. Seven cooperatives have requested mutual aid because of extensive damage, while less affected co-ops are providing assistance.
Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives coordinates operations from its headquarters in Columbus and delivers wholesale power and related services to member cooperatives for distribution throughout various communities in the state, according to the official website. The organization encompasses 24 distribution cooperatives serving homes and businesses across Ohio and focuses on supplying stable, affordable, and reliable wholesale power while supporting rural communities according to the official website.
The organization also promotes community engagement through programs emphasizing service and local impact in rural areas according to the official website. Residents are urged to stay away from any downed lines they might encounter because they could be energized and dangerous.
