Dominion Energy Focused on Power Restoration Following Two Ice Storms

Rhea-AI Summary

Dominion Energy is actively working to restore power in Virginia after two ice storms caused extensive damage. Over 7,000 crew members from multiple states are on site to assist. Approximately 2,600 customers remain without power as of 5:30 PM. Damage has been particularly severe in Central Virginia, including areas like Midlothian and Farmville. The company acknowledges the challenges posed by ice and falling trees and emphasizes safety for both customers and crews. Dominion Energy aims to restore service quickly while also providing support to other affected energy providers.

Positive

• Dominion Energy mobilized over 7,000 crew members from 19 states to restore power.
• The company is focused on ensuring safety while restoring power after the storms.

Negative

• Approximately 2,600 customers are still without power as of 5:30 PM.
• Severe damage reported in Central Virginia, impacting restoration efforts.

RICHMOND, Va., Feb. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Dominion Energy crews are out in force after a second round of ice and freezing rain swept through Virginia starting Thursday morning, bringing down trees and power lines. More than 7,000 crew members, including crews from 19 states, continue to work day and night to restore service.

Damage assessment revealed fallen trees, broken poles and downed power lines. The worst damage has been reported in parts of Central Virginia, including Midlothian, Farmville, and East Richmond.

Crews will work around the clock to restore service to approximately 2,600 customers who remain without power as of 5:30 p.m. The vast majority of remaining customer outages will be restored today.

"We want to thank our customers for their patience as we work to restore power following two damaging ice storms in one week," said Charlene Whitfield, senior vice president of Power Delivery for Dominion Energy. "Fortunately, the second round of ice was not as damaging as the first, but we remain just as focused. Customers can count on us to restore service as quickly as possible, while keeping our crews and communities safe."

With parts of Virginia seeing catastrophic damage, the company remains laser focused on restoring power for all impacted customers. As the company closes in on restoring service, Dominion Energy will provide support, as needed, to assist other hard-hit energy providers, as it relies on others for support from time to time.

Ice storms cause significant damage and present challenging working conditions. Ice weighs down trees and tree limbs, causing them to fall and create power outages. Additional outages and safety hazards may occur as ice melts and tree limbs snap back into place.

• For photos and video, visit our website: Multimedia | Dominion Energy
• To download updated footage of crews working, click here.

To ensure the fastest response, Dominion Energy asks customers to report power outages. Customers can report or track an outage by using the Dominion Energy app or going online at DominionEnergy.com. Customers may also call 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357).

Here's how customers can stay safe:

• Beware of downed power lines and remember that they could be covered by snow and tree debris. Assume they are energized and dangerous. Please remain at least 30 feet away and ensure that others also avoid the downed line. Virginia and North Carolina customers should call 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357) right away to report a downed power line.
• Ensure generators are properly connected. Be sure they are fueled, tested and connected in a well-ventilated area outdoors. Improper use of a generator could be life-threatening for customers and crews working to restore power.

About Dominion Energy
More than 7 million customers in 16 states energize their homes and businesses with electricity or natural gas from Dominion Energy (NYSE: D), headquartered in Richmond, Va. The company is committed to sustainable, reliable, affordable and safe energy and to achieving net zero carbon dioxide and methane emissions from its power generation and gas infrastructure operations by 2050. Please visit DominionEnergy.com to learn more.

 

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SOURCE Dominion Energy

FAQ

What is the current status of power restoration efforts by Dominion Energy after the ice storms?

As of 5:30 PM, approximately 2,600 customers remain without power as Dominion Energy crews work to restore service.

How many crew members is Dominion Energy deploying for power restoration?

Dominion Energy has mobilized over 7,000 crew members from 19 states to assist in power restoration efforts.

Which areas in Virginia are most affected by the recent ice storms?

The worst damage has been reported in Central Virginia, specifically in Midlothian, Farmville, and East Richmond.

What should customers do if they encounter downed power lines?

Customers should assume downed power lines are energized and dangerous, staying at least 30 feet away and reporting them by calling 1-866-DOM-HELP.