Evansville – March 3, 2023 – In response to the severe weather’s impact on its electric system in
southwestern Indiana, CenterPoint Energy has issued the following update:
Friday afternoon’s storms caused widespread damage to CenterPoint Energy’s system, with outages peaking at around 20,000 customers.
As of 7:30 p.m., there were 12,000 electric customers without power. The number of outages will likely fluctuate as high winds remain a threat until 9 p.m. this evening.
CenterPoint Energy crews are working to assess damaged equipment and downed power lines and troubleshoot outages. However, restoration efforts could be impacted due to the extent of damage to trees and equipment.
“We are working to restore service to our customers as safely and quickly as possible; however, due to continued high winds, additional outages could occur. Damage assessments and repairs will continue throughout the night,†said Richard Leger, Senior Vice President, Indiana Electric.
Leger added, “Additional crews will arrive in the morning to assist in restoration efforts. Due to the extent of damage to trees and equipment, many customers could remain without power through the weekend. We appreciate our customers’ patience as our crews work to make repairs.â€
Priority of restoration is given to facilities vital to safety, health, and welfare, such as hospitals, water treatment plants and public service facilities. After key facilities, the company follows its priority restoration process by making repairs to electrical facilities that will return power to the largest number of customers first, then continue the restoration process by prioritizing repairs to benefit the greatest number of customers until power is returned to everyone.
CenterPoint Energy reminds all customers:
- Stay away from downed power lines. Be especially mindful of downed lines that could be hidden and treat all downed lines as if they are energized.
- Be cautious around work crews and give them distance to assess damages and make repairs.
- If your power is out, do not open freezers and refrigerators any more than absolutely necessary. Opening these appliances will allow food to thaw more quickly.
- Consider checking with others who may benefit from your assistance.
- Report any downed lines or damage to 800-227-1376.
For latest information on power outages:
- Report outages by texting the word “OUT” to 83212
- Sign up for Power Alert Service for information on individual outages
- Follow @CNPAlerts Indiana and visit our outage map for general outage locations; and
