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Insights > Entergy Arkansas Storm Update – 3/17/21 @ 10:30 a.m.
Entergy Arkansas Storm Update – 3/17/21 @ 10:30 a.m.
03/17/2021
According to the National Weather Service, a line of severe thunderstorms is expected to impact the state this morning and through evening hours. The forecast calls for damaging straight-line wind gusts and frequent lightning, and the possibility of tornadoes and hail. We have assembled our restoration resources and are ready to respond to outages quickly and safely should they occur. Our team will practice social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and this may slow restoration work. We are prepared for severe weather, and we recommend customers prepare as well. For tips and storm updates, visit entergy.com/stormcenter.
STORM RESTORATION PROCESS
Following thunderstorm impact, we will deploy scouts to assess damage. Our scouts will work as quickly and safely as possible to gather information. As damages are being assessed, we will communicate with you the conditions found along with an estimated restoration time and our progress toward restoring your power. Our crews will simultaneously be restoring service where it is deemed safe to do so. We will begin restoring service to customers by closing circuit breakers, rerouting power, and other means available. We ask for your patience, and please know restoring your power safely and quickly is our top priority.
To help ensure a smooth resumption of service, we ask that customers experiencing outages turn off or unplug their air conditioners and large appliances so that when power is restored, those appliances may be turned back on gradually. As with any weather event, please be mindful of the following safety tips:
- Live wires can be deadly. Stay away from downed power lines. Call 1-800-9OUTAGE or 1-800-968-8243 to report downed or dangling power lines, poles or other damaged equipment.
- Do not trim trees or remove debris on or near downed power lines. Only power company crews or their contractors should remove trees or limbs touching power lines.
- Keep away from the immediate areas where crews are working. There is always the danger of moving equipment and the possibility of construction materials or limbs or overhead wires falling to the ground.
- If you plan on using a generator for temporary power, get a licensed electrician and disconnect from the utility electric system before hooking up to your main electric panel.
- Do not run a generator in a confined space without adequate ventilation.
- Turn off any electrical appliances that can easily be turned to the off position until power is restored.
- Check on seniors, who can be particularly susceptible to extreme temperatures.
- Try to stay off the roads in affected areas. Restoration crews can work safer and faster if they don’t have to work around traffic.
We want to keep you informed and in control. The best way to get information about outages is via Entergy’s View Outage page on our website. Additional resources for your convenience:
- Download our app for your smartphone at entergy.com/app or visit Entergy Storm Center to stay informed on our restoration progress.
- Sign up for text alerts. From your cellphone, text R E G to 368374, or visit entergytext.com.
- Follow us on Facebook and on Twitter @ EntergyARK.
- Follow updates in your local news media, like radio, television and newspapers.
