On a stormy Sunday afternoon, more than 10,000 customers in Central New York found themselves in the dark as power outages swept through the region, according to National Grid. The situation has created considerable concern, especially in Onondaga County, where feedback from residents reveals distress regarding the unexpected loss of electricity.
Extent of the Outages
Across several counties, families experienced sudden blackouts. Here’s a closer look at the specific areas most affected:
- Onondaga County: 8,388 customers without power.
- Oswego County: 3,548 customers without power.
- Madison County: 3,637 customers still awaiting restoration.
- Oneida County: 525 customers impacted, with restoration expected by midnight.
- Cortland County: 378 customers are without power, and crews are currently assessing damage.
Damage Reports
The powerful storm has caused issues beyond just power outages. Reports indicate serious damage, including a house roof being torn off in East Syracuse and multiple downed power lines obstructing roadways. Residents have noted that traffic lights are also out, creating complications for those trying to navigate the streets.
Restoration Efforts
National Grid is assessing the effects of the powerful winds and rains, working diligently to restore power where it is safe to do so. Restoration efforts are difficult due to safety concerns related to the damaged infrastructure and downed lines. The company has assured residents that it is doing everything possible to restore power to those affected, with many expecting a return to normalcy by midnight tonight.
What Residents Can Do
If you find yourself without power, there are a few steps you can take to stay safe:
- Check the National Grid website or social media pages for updates on restoration times.
- Keep flashlights and portable chargers handy in case of continued outages.
- Consider conserving food by checking the temperature of your fridge and freezer frequently.
- Stay indoors and away from downed power lines or areas where crews are working.
Community Response
The situation has prompted a wave of community support as neighbors look out for one another. Local organizations have started to provide assistance to those who may be struggling with the outage, whether that means sharing food, offering warm beverages, or simply ensuring that everyone is safe.
Conclusion
As the storm clears and recovery efforts continue, residents are hopeful for quick resolutions to the power outages. The community’s resilience shone through as people band together to help each other during these challenging times.
