Several thousand electricity customers across the state, including 10 in Darien, were still without power late Tuesday afternoon after Monday’s strong winds cut power to customers in every one of the 149 communities served by Eversource, the utility said.
As of 4:37 p.m., Tuesday, there were 4, 293 customers still waiting to get their electricity service (0.34% of the 1,279,556 customers in the state), including 10 in Darien, according to the Eversource.com website.
Eversource issued this statement early Tuesday afternoon:
While adhering to strict COVID-19 pandemic protocols, Eversource crews continue working around-the-clock shifts restoring power to customers impacted by Monday’s severe wind and rain storm.
As of midday, line and tree crews have restored power to more than 93,000 customers since the storm began and continue working to bring the remaining 7,500 customers back on line. Town-by-town restoration estimates are now available at Eversource.com.
Photo from Eversource
Eversource utility trucks
“The fierce winds with this storm caused widespread power outages, affecting customers in all of the 149 communities we serve in Connecticut,” said Eversource Vice President of Electric Operations in Connecticut Michael Hayhurst.
“We recognize how difficult it is to be without electricity especially while staying at home during this pandemic. Our crews will continue working until every customer has power back while also complying with stringent federal, state and company pandemic protocols such as social distancing, hygiene and enhanced sanitation measures to safeguard their health and well-being, as well as that of coworkers and customers.”
Some customers have more complex outages that may take longer to restore. That work may also require assistance from a private electrician or contractor. Eversource representatives are contacting these customers directly to discuss their outage.
The energy company reminds customers to be cautious while doing their own storm clean up, including moving or cutting tree limbs and to look carefully for any wires that may be entangled in debris. Always stay clear of any downed wires and report them immediately to 9-1-1.
Eversource also urges any customers who are without power and using a generator to be sure it’s located well away from their home or business and that they’re using a transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician.