National Grid is ramping up storm prep across Upstate New York as forecasters warn of strong winds and possible thunderstorms starting Wednesday.
Crews are working extended shifts and outside contractors have been called in to help if outages hit the region. The utility has activated its emergency response plan and is staging equipment and teams in the areas most likely to be affected.
“There’s never a convenient time for a storm to strike, but our crews are at the ready,” said Kyle Bentley, National Grid’s Vice President for Electric Operations in New York.
The company is also contacting customers directly and reaching out to emergency officials to share safety updates. Life support customers are getting special outreach to make sure they’re prepared.
Safety reminders from National Grid include:
- Never touch downed power lines — always assume they’re live.
- Keep generators outside to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Disconnect from the grid before using a generator to protect crews and neighbors.
- Avoid candles during outages; use flashlights instead.
- Charge electronics ahead of time and check on neighbors who may need help.
- Use caution around crews working to restore power.
Customers can report outages by texting OUT to 64743, and get updates by texting REG to the same number. More info is available through the National Grid app or at their Outage Central website.
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