Rappahannock Electric Cooperative and Dominion Energy officials are warning customers that the potential for snow and ice accumulation this weekend could cause multi-day power outages.
Casey Hollins, REC’s managing director of communications and public relations, said it would only take a quarter of an inch of ice to break power lines and cause widespread outages.
“That weight of the ice can weigh down power lines and cause them to snap and break,” Hollins said. “It will definitely weigh down trees and limbs and cause them to bend or break.”
The Fredericksburg area is expected to see very cold temperatures on Saturday with snow accumulating Saturday night into early Sunday. Several hours of ice are forecasted for Sunday.
Low temperatures could be in the single digits in the early part of the week.
“Another factor that people really need to be aware of is the extreme cold temperatures that’s going to stick around for days after the weather event stops and making sure that they have a backup heating source or an alternate plan for where they can go to stay safe,” Hollins said. “If there are power outages, they’re likely to go for multiple days and safety is our top priority for everyone.”
Dominion representatives weren’t available for comment, but the company posted online that officials are monitoring the forecast. A video on Facebook cautioned customers about the potential for outages.
Hollins said REC will have all hands on deck starting Saturday. The company welcomed additional mutual aid partners to support restoration efforts, including electric co-op crews from other states and contract crews. REC operates in 22 counties in Virginia, including Caroline, Spotsylvania, and Stafford.
“Everyone will be here Saturday and ready to respond,” Hollins said … “That outage restoration process is a lengthy process getting to multiple damage sites, so we’re preparing for the worst. I’m not guaranteeing there’s going to be a multi-day outage, but we’re preparing for the worst, so that we’re prepared to respond quickly and effectively to get the power back on.”
REC sent out a reminder to customers to consider an extra heating source, prepare their generator to provide backup power, gather extra blankets, bedding, sleeping bags, sweaters, and other warm clothing items. Its website provided a complete list of recommended items for storm preparedness and its method to track outages, which can be reported by texting OUT to 63273, online at myrec.coop/out, in the MyREC SmartHub or by calling 800/552-3904. The toll-free number can also be used to report downed power lines.
REC also offered the following advice on generators:
- Isolate your generator from REC’s power lines using a generator transfer switch, which requires installation.
- Connect appliances or other devices directly to the generator with the appropriate cords. Never connect your generator directly to your home wiring unless you are using a generator transfer switch to operate safely.
- Never refuel your generator while it’s operating.
- Provide adequate ventilation and air cooling for the generator to prevent overheating and the accumulation of toxic fumes. Do not place a portable generator in a closed area. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous.
