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Be Ready For Severe Weather, Central Hudson Warns

With heavy thunderstorms expected to hit the region Tuesday afternoon and evening following a lengthy stretch of humid weather, Central Hudson Gas and Electric officials are warning of the possibility of service interruptions.

Central Hudson

Central Hudson

 Photo Credit: File
Zak Failla
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A cold front is expected to hit the area on Tuesday afternoon, bringing thunderstorms and cooler temperatures - as well as strong wind gusts, thunder and lightning. Flooding has also been predicted in urban and low-lying areas. 

"Severe weather may impact our region this afternoon, bringing the potential for electric service interruptions caused by damaging wind gusts and lightning,” Central Hudson Senior Vice President of Customer Services and Transmission and Distribution Charles Freni said. 

”Central Hudson is preparing equipment and crews, and our customers, too, should take precautions. 

"Although we regularly invest in the electric system and manage trees and vegetation, severe storm conditions can cause damage and interrupt electric service.”

Freni said that customers can take several steps in advance of the expected storm: 

  • Pay attention to weather advisories, storm outage updates and/or shelter information;
  • Charge electronic devices in order to connect with https://StormCentral.CenHud.com;
  • Keep handy a flashlight and fresh batteries;
  • Have a battery-powered radio to remain informed of restoration efforts;
  • Confirm adequate packaged or canned foods that require no refrigeration or cooking;
  • Avoid opening a refrigerator unnecessarily during outages, so that food lasts longer;
  • Have a non-electric can opener;
  • Keep an emergency supply of bottled water on hand for drinking and washing;
  • Fill bathtubs with water as added reserves.

"Remember to follow the manufacturer's safety instructions on the use of emergency generators, and be sure to shut off the main breaker when in use and operate the units only outdoors," Freni added. He also advised "customers to know how to open their garage door manually if they usually rely on an electrically operated, remote-control door opener."

Freni encouraged customers to keep safety in mind:

  • Stay at least 30 feet away from downed power lines, and remember that lines may be entangled and hidden in fallen trees. Assume all downed lines are live;
  • Beware of fallen trees and limbs, and use caution or traveling;
  • Avoid the use of candles for illumination due to fire hazards;
  • Follow the manufacturer's safety instructions on the use of emergency generators, and be sure to shut off the main breaker when in use and operate the units outdoors;
  • Never use outdoor gas or charcoal grills indoors, as they pose a fire hazard and over time can give off deadly carbon monoxide gas; and
  • Operate cars and motor vehicles outdoors only, and never inside the garage.

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