Snow and bitter cold are expected to move into the region this weekend, but utility officials say they’re ready if the weather causes trouble.
New York State Electric & Gas and Rochester Gas and Electric say they’re closely watching forecasts for Winter Storm Fern. The system is expected to bring frigid temperatures and snow to the Northeast, though major outages are not expected in the companies’ service areas.
NYSEG and RG&E say they’ll staff crews around the clock through the weekend. The companies have already pre-staged field crews across the state ahead of snow expected Sunday into Monday.
Company and contractor crews will stay on site and ready to respond if outages occur. The utilities say they’re prepared to restore service as safely and quickly as possible.
The companies plan to share updates throughout the storm on their websites and social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Customers can also sign up for outage alerts by phone, text, or email. NYSEG and RG&E encourage customers to download their mobile apps, which allow users to report outages and check restoration status.
Utility officials urge customers to prepare ahead of the weather. That includes keeping battery-powered flashlights and radios on hand, along with drinking water and non-perishable food.
Customers should fully charge phones and other mobile devices and make sure vehicles have a full tank of gas.
NYSEG and RG&E stress that downed power lines pose a serious risk. People should stay at least 30 feet away from any fallen wire.
If a wire contacts a vehicle, drivers should stay inside and wait for help unless there’s immediate danger. Customers should report downed lines or hazardous situations to NYSEG at 1-800-572-1131 or RG&E at 1-800-743-1701.
The companies say their first priority during any outage is public safety, especially responding to reports of downed power lines.
Once crews secure those hazards, they assess damage, develop a restoration plan, and make repairs as quickly as possible.
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