BARC Electric Outage Repair
On Friday, June 17th, a quick but severe storm hit BARC electric cooperative’s service territory, creating significant damage to the cooperative’s electric system. The entire service territory was impacted with widespread outages knocking out power to about 8,000 electric customers in 139 individual outage locations. BARC continues assessing storm damage from Friday and as of Monday had replaced 17 broken power poles across the service territory, cleared numerous trees, and repaired multiple downed power lines. BARC’s electric system also sustained damage to one power transmissions line and three power distribution lines.
Restoration efforts began on Friday afternoon as the storms passed through the service territory. Though this was a quick storm that passed through the area, the destruction it created was significant and substantial. BARC appreciates the patience and support from its members during this event and extended outage period.
BARC wishes to thank Northern Neck Cooperative in Warsaw, Virginia, Prince George Electric Cooperative in Prince George, Virginia and Lee Electrical Construction, LLC in Aberdeen, North Carolina for assisting with power restoration to members.
As severe storms become more frequent in the cooperative’s service area, BARC wants to remind its members that preparation is key. BARC crews and staff are dedicated to restoring power as safely and quickly as possible when outage events occur, but severe damage can and does lead to extended outage periods. The terrain in BARC’s service area is not always accessible with vehicles, is mountainous and has much forested land. The cooperative reminds members to stay weather aware and be prepared in advance of storms with key items on-hand such as:
- Batteries and flashlights
- Non-perishable food and snacks
- Bottled water
- Necessary medications
- First aid kit
- Battery powered radio
In the event of any outage, please ensure you report it to BARC by using the BARC mobile app or by calling 800-846-2272.
For Allegheny Mountain Radio, this is Cash Chambers.
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