Orange and Rockland Utilities Preps for Severe Weather Monday, Forecast Predicts Possible Thunder Storms

Orange and Rockland Utilities (O&R) is preparing to mobilize its emergency response workforce to repair potential damage and restore possible power outages that could result from heavy thunderstorms Monday that are now predicted in isolated areas throughout the region but could develop into a string of more powerful storms tomorrow.

On Monday, a cold front will approach the area bringing another round of scattered showers and thunderstorms. Isolated severe thunderstorms are possible from 2 p.m. Monday through after midnight Tuesday, with a chance that thunderstorms may organize into a more potent line segment as they cross through the region.

A heavy thunderstorm could pose a significant threat to electric service because its associated high winds and lightning strikes contribute to downing trees, tree limbs and overhead electric lines — all of which could interfere with the safe, reliable delivery of electric service. A line of heavy thunderstorms would represent an even more serious potential risk.

O&R company and contractor overhead line crews and tree removal experts, customer service operators and the rest of the members of the O&R emergency response team will be activated and deployed early Monday afternoon.