FirstEnergy Ohio Prepares for Severe Weather Outages

FirstEnergy’s Ohio electric companies are bracing for severe weather, mobilizing over 1,000 line workers and support teams to address potential power outages across the state. This proactive stance comes as strong winds, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes are expected to hit Ohio starting Wednesday evening.

Ohio Utilities Brace for Storms

FirstEnergy’s Ohio electric companies, including Ohio Edison, Toledo Edison, and The Illuminating Company, are deploying extensive resources. Over 1,000 outside line workers, alongside forestry personnel and damage assessment teams, are positioned across the state.

This preparation is critical, marking the fourth significant storm system in just two weeks. Torrence Hinton, President of FirstEnergy Ohio, affirmed the company’s commitment to “safely and quickly restoring power.”

Proactive Reliability & Safety Tips

The company maintains a year-round strategy focused on system reliability. This includes consistent tree trimming, significant investments in grid infrastructure upgrades, and regular aerial inspections to prevent service disruptions.

Customers are advised to take key precautionary measures:

• Stay at least 30 feet away from downed power lines and report them immediately to 911.
• Secure outdoor items that could be blown into power lines.
• Ensure mobile devices are charged and have emergency supplies ready, such as flashlights and nonperishable food.

Outages can be reported by calling 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877), texting REG to LIGHTS (544487) for alerts, or using the ‘Outages’ link on firstenergycorp.com. Updates are available by texting STAT to 544487, via online account, or on the outage map.