PPL Preparing for Possible Outages

PPL is preparing for possible power outages that could occur with gusty high winds expected late Friday night and Saturday, including adding additional personnel overnight and staging repair crews in certain areas.

The National Weather Service has placed a wind advisory in effect from now through 7 p.m. Saturday for 20 to 30 mph sustained winds with gusts up to 40 mph.

PPL customers experiencing outages are asked to report them at 1-800-342-5775 (1-800-DIAL PPL) or through the online Outage Center at www.pplelectric.com/outagecenter. When prompted, customers reporting by phone should press 1 for "Power Problem."

"With weather forecasts calling for sustained winds of 35 mph through early Saturday (2/25) and gusts possibly reaching 60 mph, we're putting resources in place to respond as quickly and as safely as possible to any outages that may affect our customers," said David Bonenberger, general manager for Transmission and Substations for the utility.

Through a new mobile website, customers can use their smartphone or other mobile device to report a power outage, check the status of that outage or view outage information for the entire PPL Electric Utilities service area.

 Customers who access www.pplelectric.com/outagecenter through a mobile device will automatically see a mobile-friendly view of the key outage features available on the full site, with no download required. They also can bookmark the mobile site Web address: m.pplelectric.com.

Staying safe is paramount when severe weather happens. PPL Electric Utilities advises the public to:

• Stay clear of downed power lines.
• Do not use gas ovens or ranges to heat your home.
• Avoid candles and use flashlights instead. Candles can cause a fire if tipped by animals or people, or if they come in contact with a combustible item.
• Never run a generator in your home, basement or other indoor space where exhaust fumes may accumulate.