Duke Energy Prepares for Winter Storm Fern with Extensive Safety and Response Measures

Duke Energy Braces for Winter Storm Fern: Proactive Measures and Customer Safety

Duke Energy, serving approximately 4.7 million electric customers across the Carolinas, faces the impending threat of Winter Storm Fern, which is forecasted to bring snow, sleet, and freezing rain starting Saturday. The storm poses risks of hazardous travel and extended power outages due to significant ice accumulation, which can down trees and branches onto power lines, and potentially weigh down the lines themselves. In anticipation of these challenges, Duke Energy is taking extensive precautions to safeguard its infrastructure and ensure the safety of its customers.

To prepare for the storm, Duke Energy mobilizes over 18,000 workers, including lineworkers from neighboring states and third-party support crews. This extensive workforce is part of the company’s commitment to a swift response to any outages that may occur once weather conditions permit. In addition to deploying personnel, Duke Energy is closely monitoring meteorological forecasts and staging necessary equipment across the service area. The utility company is also working in coordination with local emergency management officials to facilitate a comprehensive response to the storm's impact.

Duke Energy emphasizes the importance of customer preparedness as the storm approaches. The company encourages its customers to make emergency kits, utilize the American Red Cross Emergency app, and ensure they have the latest version of the Duke Energy smartphone app for real-time updates and outage alerts. Safety remains paramount; customers are reminded to avoid downed power lines and to operate generators according to manufacturer instructions. Furthermore, ongoing grid improvements, including upgraded poles and wires and the installation of smart technology, are expected to aid in quicker restoration efforts, showcasing Duke Energy’s long-term commitment to reliability and safety.

In addition to its storm preparation efforts, Duke Energy continues to focus on enhancing its infrastructure to withstand severe weather conditions. Investments in smart technology and grid upgrades are part of the company's broader strategy to improve service reliability and reduce the duration of outages during extreme weather events. This proactive approach not only aims to minimize disruptions for customers but also reinforces Duke Energy's role as a leader in the energy sector.

As the winter storm approaches, Duke Energy remains vigilant and proactive, ensuring that both its workforce and customers are prepared for the challenges ahead. By fostering a culture of safety and preparedness, the company aims to mitigate the impact of Winter Storm Fern on its service area while reinforcing its commitment to providing reliable energy to millions across the Carolinas.