Northern Neck Electric Cooperative urges members to begin preparations for power outages in anticipation of snow and ice this week. Impacts could begin in the Northern Neck region on Monday, January 15. Various weather stations are forecasting a wide range of accumulations and precipitation types, including 0-3” of snow possible.

NNEC will have contractors and mutual aid restoration crews on standby, ready to respond should the situation require additional aid. The cooperative continues to monitor the progression of the storm and is in regular contact with weather tracking services for the latest information, as well as state and local authorities.

Unsafe road conditions may increase NNEC response time to outages. Additionally, “blinking” of lights may occur, which is a normal condition during a weather event such as this. Co-op members do not need to report blinking lights in these circumstances.

NNEC makes every effort to have power restored to members as quickly and safely as possible. The cooperative prioritizes restoration by first working scenes that will bring the most people back on. When available, estimated times for restoration will be provided in the Outage Center on www.nnec.coop/outages   and through the coNNECt app. In the case of widespread outages, these estimated times may not be provided given the number of outage incidents crews are working.

The cooperative offers these tips in case of an outage:

  • Do not make any attempts to clear trees or other debris from power lines. Note the location, and any other important information regarding these situations, and notify NNEC immediately at (800) 333-3621.
  • Avoid contact with downed power lines. Never drive, move, or step on or over power lines due to potential danger.  
  • To report an outage, contact NNEC at (866) 663-2688.Please do not report outages through NNEC social media channels or via email.
  • Make sure your cell phone and other devices are fully charged in advance. 
  • Download the coNNECt app to report your outage and more. Visit www.nnec.coop.
  • Prepare a home outage kit, to include:
    • Flashlights and extra batteries
    • A battery-operated radio
    • Candles or lanterns and matches
    • An alternate source of heat
    • Canned or packaged foods
    • Water (one gallon per person per day for drinking)
    • Disposable plates and utensils
    • Camp stove or other emergency cooking device
    • Extra blankets or sleeping bags
    • Fire extinguisher
    • First aid kit

For further explanation on NNEC steps to restoring power, please visit https://www.nnec.coop/outages-safety/outage-center/outage-restoration-process/