Orange and Rockland Utilities Preps for Severe Weather Tuesday; Forecast Predicts Possibly Damaging T- Storms in Late Afternoon

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 Tuesday that are now predicted in isolated areas throughout 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. Rain saturated soil and full summer foliage increase the risk of tree damage and subsequent electric service outages.

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 Tuesday afternoon.

For safety’s sake, O&R warns the public not to touch or approach any downed wire. Assume it is energized and dangerous. Call O&R immediately toll-free 1-877-434-4100. Depending on the situation, you may also consider calling your local police to divert traffic from the downed wire’s location until an O&R crew arrives.

On Tuesday, a cold front is due to cross the area triggering scattered showers and thunderstorms. Isolated severe thunderstorms are possible from approximately 2 p.m. through 10 p.m. Tuesday.