A Message from Duke Energy regarding the upcoming storm

Duke Energy is closely monitoring forecasts and taking necessary steps to prepare for the potential winter storm that could cause power outages in some areas. Our meteorologists are tracking the storm and updating forecast models to help us mobilize our workers and other resources as needed. We anticipate the possibility of a major winter storm and storm-related power outages this weekend. The type of precipitation (snow, ice, or sleet) and expected accumulation are of particular concern. While our local forecast calls for more snow than ice, we are diligently monitoring the changing conditions.

Generally, it takes around six inches or more of snow before we start to see outages caused by trees and tree limbs breaking, leading to power disruptions. However, with ice, it only takes about a quarter of an inch to cause similar outages. Our crews are ready to support outage restoration in areas impacted by the storm. As a large utility, we have the advantage of being well-equipped to support our service areas and can move crews not in the storm’s path to areas where outages occur.

Throughout the year, Duke Energy works on grid improvements to help avoid outages and restore power faster when they do occur. These improvements include tree trimming around power lines, pole and line upgrades, and installing smart, self-healing technology. This technology quickly identifies power outages and reroutes power to restore service faster for customers. In 2025, self-healing technology helped avoid more than 445,000 customer outages in Ohio and Kentucky, saving 1.4 million hours of total outage time. Around half of these benefits occurred during major storms, providing a powerful tool to help crews in the field restore power when severe weather strikes.

Additionally, we are conducting pre-storm tree trimming this week to limit customer impact and support restoration efforts. We manage vegetation year-round across our service area to reduce the number and length of power outages caused by trees and limbs.

In the event of a power outage, restoring power as safely and quickly as possible is our top priority while keeping our customers informed. Customers who experience an outage during the storm can report it in the following ways:

– Text OUT to 57801 (standard text and data charges may apply).

– Use the Duke Energy mobile app, available for download from the Apple Store or Google Play.

– Visit duke-energy.com/outages on a desktop computer or mobile device.

– Call the automated outage reporting system at 800.POWERON (800.769.3766).

– Visit our interactive outage map to find up-to-date information on power outages, including the total number of outages systemwide and estimated times of restoration.

We encourage customers to prepare for a potential outage during the anticipated cold weather. Here are some important safety reminders:

• Ensure mobile phones remain charged and you have an adequate supply of flashlights, batteries, bottled water, nonperishable foods, and medicines.
• If you use a generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and proper operation. Operate your generator outside, never in a building or garage.
• Do not use grills or other outdoor appliances indoors for space heating or cooking, as these devices may emit carbon monoxide.
• Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees or limbs in contact with lines. Report any downed power lines to Duke Energy or local emergency services.
• Make alternate shelter arrangements if you are significantly affected by a loss of power, especially for families with special medical needs or elderly members.
• If a power line falls across a car that you are in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Ensure no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.
• Ice and snow can cause hazardous driving conditions. If you must travel and see utility or emergency crews working along the road, remember to move over or slow down.

For more tips on what to do before, during, and after a storm, please visit duke-energy.com/safety-and-preparedness/storm-safety.