Duke Energy Issues Advisory

RICHMOND COUNTY - The following advisory was issued by Duke Energy in conjunction with the approach of Hurricane/Tropical Storm Michael: 

Hurricane Michael is bringing dangerous conditions.

Michael is quickly moving toward our area. Stay safe.

Having made landfall, this massive storm is quickly moving north, bringing high winds and significant rains across the Carolinas. With the already saturated ground, these conditions could down trees and power lines, resulting in 300,000-500,000 power outages. Plan now for possible extended outages for your business.

We care about your business and safety, and will continue to share information and updates. As this storm approaches, continue to stay alert and heed all warnings from local and state officials.

Assume that any downed power line could be energized. Also, remember that power lines can be hidden by debris and standing water, so use extreme caution in damaged areas.

Unfortunately, these dangerous conditions could also delay our ability to begin the restoration process. But please know that line-workers are standing by, ready to begin work as soon as it is safe to do so. And we won’t stop until everyone’s power has been restored.

High-water safety reminders

• Learn about your county’s emergency plans, evacuation routes and locations of emergency shelters: North Carolina, South Carolina.
• Turn off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box if rising water threatens your home or if you evacuate your home.
• Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. DO NOT drive over or stand near downed power lines. Electric current passes easily through water.
• Businesses along lakes and rivers and in other low-lying areas should pay close attention to local emergency management officials, the National Weather Service and media for changing weather conditions and rising lake and river levels.
• If you have electrical service to facilities (piers, outside lighting on seawalls, etc.) on or near the water, have a qualified electrical contractor de-energize this service to avoid injuries and equipment damage.

For updated lake level information, go to duke-energy.com/community/lakes or call Duke Energy's Lake Neighbor Information line at 800.829.LAKE (5253).Safety around hydro stations and dams

• Watch for rising water levels.
• Know where high ground is and move there quickly if you see or hear rapidly rising water.
• Heed warning signs posted near threatening areas, and avoid boating and swimming in these areas.
• Watch for strong currents, wear life jackets and stay alert to changing weather conditions.

Stay alert for partially submerged objects. High water can sweep heavy debris into the lakes.

Outage Information

If you experience an outage, please report it via our website, text OUT to 57801 or call 800.419.6356. 

Visit our Duke Energy website for updates. View our outage map online.