Con Edison: storm central - storm preparation

storm preparation

Storm preparedness

Con Edison knows that losing electric service is a hardship for our customers. We plan our storm response well in advance to make sure we can restore service as quickly and efficiently as possible. Our repair crews will work around the clock until all service is restored.

For customers served by overhead power lines, outages can have a number of causes. Among the most common ones are high winds and storms knocking down power lines; tree limbs coming into contact with power lines, causing a short that opens a circuit breaker; vehicles hitting and knocking down utility poles; or lightning striking power lines or other equipment.

Sometimes, restoring power is as simple as sending a mechanic to re-close a circuit breaker that has opened, which may take only minutes depending on the how close the crew is to the breaker. In other instances, restoration can be a longer and more complicated process. For example, if a utility pole comes down, a new pole must be set in the ground and the cross arms atop the pole must be installed. New transformers may have to be put up, new cable strung and connected, and switches or breakers closed before power is restored.

In the event of a major storm, or heavy snow and ice conditions, when large numbers of customers are affected, returning service may take several hours. Often, many poles must be erected and miles of power lines installed. Crews work around the clock to restore all power.

Sometimes, repairing the damage caused by a major storm may take a long time, and it is usually impossible for us to tell you exactly when your service will be restored. We ask for your understanding and cooperation, and we assure you that service will be restored as quickly as possible.

While our repair crews are restoring service, they also will be working to clear away hazards, such as broken or leaning utility poles, downed wires, and fallen trees.

Be ready for storms and severe weather. The information and tips provided in these pages can guide you and your family in preparing for storms and severe weather.