MLGW Continues Third Day of Restoration Efforts

MLGW continues its restoration efforts after strong storms rolled through the Mid-South on Tuesday afternoon. The utility has restored service to 27,500 of the 28,000 customers who were without power initially due to the storm.

Approximately 1,100 customers are currently without power, with about 450 of those outages from the original storm event. MLGW still estimates Friday noon for full restoration due to Tuesday’s storm.

Currently, 79 crews are working to restore power. Crews from other utilities are also assisting with restoration efforts.

Customers still without service should report their outage to MLGW’s outage hotline at 544-6500.

To report an emergency such as downed wires or gas leaks, please call 528-4465. This number should be treated like 911 and only used for these types of emergencies

The Electric Service Restoration Process:

Areas with the heaviest damage have the longest restoration times. With yesterday’s storm, restoration efforts involve multiple MLGW crews performing repairs. For example, an MLGW troubleshooter may be sent out to analyze a problem. If the problem is simple, the troubleshooter may be able to make repairs and restore power. For outages with more extensive damage, tree trimmers, overhead crews, or other additional resources may be dispatched to make necessary repairs. These repairs could include pole or equipment replacements and the re-installation of power lines.

Generator Safety Tips:

•  Never use a generator indoors or in an enclosed area such as a garage. Generators emit toxic carbon monoxide from the engine exhaust.

•  A generator should only be operated in a well-ventilated and dry area, away from air intakes to the home.

• Do not attempt to restore power to your entire house by plugging the generator into a wall outlet. The electricity produced by a generator cannot only ruin your home’s wiring and start a fire, but it can also feed back into the utility system and energize a line thought to be without power possibly injuring utility workers trying to restore power. It can also cause damage to the generator when electric service is restored.

• Handle fuel carefully. Turn the generator off prior to refueling. Gasoline, kerosene and other flammable liquids should be stored outside of living areas in properly labeled safety containers.

• Turn off or disconnect all appliances prior to operating a portable generator. Once the generator is running, appliances powered by the generator can be turned on one at a time.


For additional safety and energy-saving tips, visit mlgw.com.