News

5/10/2009

Outage Update

Citizens Electric has reached the half-way point in restoring power following the storms that hit southeastern Missouri on Friday. While nearly 10,000 members were without power at the peak on Friday, approximately 4,800 members remain without power this morning.

Damage to the Corporation's distribution system was scattered throughout its territory which includes Ste. Genevieve, St. Francois, Perry and Cape Girardeau Counties. Since most of the destruction occurred within Perry and Cape Counties, it may be up to three days before some members in those areas are restored.

Electric service is expected to be fully restored to members within the Ste. Genevieve District sometime today, which will enable crews from that district to assist in efforts in the southern portion of CEC's service territory.

With the assistance of the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives (AMEC), linemen from Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas and Kentucky are helping with restoration efforts. Along with line personnel, contracted tree crews are working 16-hour days clearing away fallen trees and debris from electric lines. In total, more than 150 workers are dedicating their efforts to power restoration.

Please stay away from all power lines and assume they are energized, even if they are broken or on the ground. If there are electric lines down on your property, stay away and call 1-800-286-2251.

Citizens Electric appreciates your patience during this time. CEC personnel are working hard to complete restoration efforts as quickly and safely as possible. We will keep you posted as further information becomes available.

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