Power has been restored to 98% of OUC customers post Hurricane Milton, as of 10:30am on Saturday, October 12th. At the time of the OUC announcement, there were 4,327 customers in Orlando and 182 in St. Cloud who remained without power.
OUC expects complete restoration of local customers by 11:59pm on Saturday, October 12th. The exceptions are areas heavily affected by tree damage, or homes with damage to customer-owned electrical equipment.
Contacting OUC To Report Outages
The company is aware of discrepancies appearing in OUC’s Outage Map and Outage Alert System. OUC said it is working to resolve the issue. If the map incorrectly shows you have power or you receive an alert stating you are restored when you are not, please report your outage again to OUC. You can report your outage by texting OUT to 69682, calling 407-423-9018, or via email.
Weatherhead/Meter Base Repairs
To expedite restoration of service, customers should check their property to ensure all electric devices (such as the weatherhead and meter base) have not been damaged by the storm. Should there be damage, they must have repairs performed by a licensed electrician and inspected by the City or County. For help in finding a licensed contractor within OUC’s Preferred Contractor Network, check here.
How Does OUC Restore Power?
To learn how OUC restores power, watch this video:
OUC also advises customers to continue to practice safety protocols after the storm:
Generator
- Place the generator outside your home and away from open windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
- Avoid plugging the generator directly into your home because it could re-energize the power lines, endangering your neighbors and utility crews working to restore power in your area.
Downed Lines
- Exercise safety outside and be wary of downed lines. Power lines still could be energized and hidden in debris.
Pooled Water/Flooded Streets
- Avoid pooled water and flooded streets. Downed wires and electrical equipment, such as a pad mounted transformer, could be hidden and still energized.
OUC thanked local customers in advance for their patience and urged them to stay safe.
OUC.com/stormcenter will regularly be updated with latest information and includes safety tips.
The utility provides electric, water, chilled water, lighting and solar services to more than 400,000 accounts in Orlando, St. Cloud and parts of unincorporated Orange County and Osceola County in Central Florida.
photo courtesy of OUC-The Reliable One