PUC Working Closely with Utilities and State Agencies to Ensure Restoration of Power Across Pennsylvania

PUC Working Closely with Utilities and State Agencies to Ensure Restoration of Power Across Pennsylvania

Published on 4/30/2025

Filed under: Electric Gas Telecommunications Transportation and Safety

PUC Reminds Residents: Safety First, Especially Around Downed Wires, Generators, and Storm Cleanup

HARRISBURG - Following a powerful and fast-moving storm system that swept across much of Pennsylvania, causing widespread damage to electric utility infrastructure, roadways, and telecommunications networks, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is urging residents to remain alert, informed, and cautious during the ongoing recovery process.

As of this afternoon, there are 426,000 utility customers without power across the Commonwealth - down from more than 557,000 outages reported last evening. The heaviest impact remains in Allegheny County, which accounts for more than half of all reported outages. Other hard-hit counties include Westmoreland, Centre, Indiana, Washington, Cambria, Beaver, Jefferson, Armstrong, and Clearfield, where crews are actively assessing damage and working to restore essential services.

In response to the storm, the Commission has been in close communication with utilities, along with the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA), the Governor's Office, and other state and local agencies, to ensure a coordinated, efficient restoration effort.

"This was not a routine weather event. The intensity and scale of the damage-affecting not just electric systems but also roadways, cell towers, and other infrastructure-requires an all-hands response," said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. "We are working closely with our partners to help ensure that service is restored in a way that is both safe and efficient, even as conditions remain challenging in many areas."

Electric utilities are executing emergency response plans, prioritizing restoration to critical facilities such as hospitals, public safety agencies, and water systems. From there, crews focus on repairs that will restore power to the greatest number of customers, which often requires work at substations or transmission lines located outside of individual neighborhoods.

"We understand the frustration and uncertainty that come with extended outages," Chairman DeFrank added. "But even if you don't see utility crews on your street, know that vital repairs may be happening nearby to restore service to your home."

PUC Investigates Fatal Incidents Involving Downed Power Lines

The PUC's Safety Division is also investigating two fatal incidents related to downed electric lines-one in Pittsburgh and one in State College. These tragedies occurred during the storm's aftermath and are a sobering reminder of the extreme danger posed by storm-damaged utility lines.

"Any downed wire must be treated as live and extremely dangerous," stressed Chairman DeFrank. "That includes not just the line itself, but also any tree, fence, vehicle, or puddle the wire may be touching."

Residents are strongly urged to stay clear of all downed wires and to report them immediately to their electric utility and, when appropriate, to 9-1-1.

Power Outage Safety

If you experience an outage, consider the following tips:

• Report the Outage to Your Electric Utility - Do not assume it's already been reported.
• Stay Away from Downed Wires - Always assume fallen lines are energized and dangerous.
• Avoid Puddles or Objects in Contact with Wires - They can conduct electricity.
• Never Attempt to Remove Trees or Branches from power lines.
• Don't Call 9-1-1 for Outages - Only call 9-1-1 if there is an emergency or safety hazard like a live wire.

Staying Safe While You Wait for Power to Return

• Use Flashlights, Not Candles - Avoid fire hazards during power loss.
• Turn Off Appliances and Electronics - Prevent damage from surges when power is restored.
• Leave One Light On - So you'll know when power is back.
• Wait Before Powering Up - After electricity is restored, wait 15 minutes before turning on major appliances.
• Use Generators Safely - Operate them outdoors and away from vents or windows. Never connect them to home wiring, which can endanger utility crews.
• Check on Neighbors - Especially seniors or those with special needs.

The PUC remains fully engaged with utilities, state agencies, and emergency managers to monitor progress and support the safe, timely restoration of service.

Additional Guidance and Resources

In coordination with the Governor's Office, PEMA, and other Commonwealth agencies, the PUC encourages residents to stay informed about ongoing storm-related hazards that extend beyond utility service.

Severe weather and high winds have impacted roadways and travel across western and central Pennsylvania, leading to numerous closures. For up-to-date information on roadway conditions, visit www.511PA.com or use the 511PA smartphone app, which provides 24/7 updates on traffic, closures, and weather conditions statewide.

Additionally, residents are urged to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, especially during active or changing conditions. Free alert systems, including mobile apps, NOAA weather radios, and local media outlets, can help keep families and communities safe during emergencies.

For statewide storm response updates, visit www.Ready.PA.gov.

Working together, Pennsylvania's utility providers and public agencies remain committed to restoring essential services and helping residents recover from the storm safely.

About the PUC

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC's website at puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the "Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission" or "PA PUC" on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.

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Contact:

• Nils Hagen-Frederiksen
  Press Secretary
  717-418-2701
  nhagen-fre@pa.gov