With Elsa impacting Florida with rain and wind, it’s time to question last minute checks to be prepared for the storm, and that also means being prepared to possibly lose power. OUC works as quickly as possible to restore your power – but limitations due to COVID-19 may cause longer-than-expected restoration times following major storm activity, and this could be the first test in a busy hurricane season.
Here are a few tips to prepare for Elsa:
- Store patio/yard items that may move during a storm.
- Locate the nearest emergency shelters.
- Stock up on supplies: manual can opener, cooler, battery-operated radio, flashlights, extra batteries, emergency food and water.
- Assemble a first aid kit and a two-week supply of required medicines.
OUC’s Storm Center can help you prepare early and keep you updated in case of an outage. You can also download and review the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s supply kit checklist here.
Duke Energy Florida is preparing for Tropical Storm Elsa and is urging customers to prepare as well. “Duke Energy is committed to restoring power as safely and quickly as possible, while keeping customers informed throughout the process,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We prepare year-round and continuously modernize the grid to keep the lights on, but tropical weather events like Elsa bring wind-blown debris and flooding that can cause outages. We are prepared for those conditions and encourage our customers to continue monitoring the storm.”
For more tips, see OUC’s Tropical Weather Guide.
