Duke Energy has restored power to more than 31,000 customers in southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky following severe storms with high winds. Despite the progress, around 30,000 customers remain without electricity as of 11:45 a.m.
Heavy rain and winds measuring 80 to 100 mph damaged power lines and infrastructure in areas surrounding Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Repair efforts by Duke Energy crews continue while the extent of the damage is assessed. Restoration time estimates will be released post-assessment.
Amy Spiller, president of Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky, stated, "Our teams made significant progress overnight, repairing broken poles and downed power lines, and we’re bringing in line crews from sister utilities and other states in the Duke Energy service territory to assist." She added, "We’re focused on restoring service quickly and safely, and we appreciate our customers’ patience as we respond."
During restoration, large power lines and equipment are priorities to return service to as many customers as possible. Subsequent repairs focus on individual neighborhoods and homes. Information on Duke Energy's restoration process is available online.
Customers can report outages via duke-energy.com, the Duke Energy app, by texting OUT to 57801, or calling 1.800.343.3525. Restored power status can also be tracked through text, phone, or email alerts.
Safety reminders from Duke Energy include avoiding all downed power lines and staying inside vehicles if lines fall on them. Essential exit instructions are provided only in life-threatening situations. Further storm safety advice is accessible on Duke Energy’s website.
Duke Energy warns customers to be cautious of scams post-storm, emphasizing that they will not demand payment details over the phone or request prepaid credit cards. More anti-scam tips are shared on their website.
Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky, a part of Duke Energy, serves a vast customer base with electric and gas services in a substantial area across Ohio and Kentucky.