Rhode Island Energy says 8,500 customers still without power

Gino DeAngelis,

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island Energy said that around 8,500 customers were still without power after severe wind and rain Friday that impacted 45,000 customers.

The company said that crews had been working to restore power to all customers, but nighttime winds “may result in additional outages.”

“Customers should be prepared for the possibility that single or isolated outages could extend into Sunday as crews address more complex repairs impacting larger numbers of customers,” Rhode Island Energy said.

The company said that customers could get updates the following ways:

  • Report power outages at RIEnergy.com/outage or call RIE’s Contact Center at 1-855-743-1101 
  • Use a mobile device to report an outage by texting OUTAGE to 743674 and text STATUS to 743674 to check on the status of an outage
  • Follow RIE on Facebook, X, and Instagram to stay connected with the latest storm and restoration updates
  • Find restoration updates and view outages in your area by checking the RIE Outage Map 

In addition, warnings about downed powerlines were also given:

  • Never touch downed power lines and always assume that any fallen lines are live electric wires. If you see one, report it immediately to RIE or your local emergency response organization.  
  • Stay at least 30 feet away (at least two full pole spans) from all downed wires and keep others and pets from going near them. Never attempt to clear debris, perform maintenance, or try to move downed power lines.
  • Never touch a person or an object that is in contact with a downed line, as electricity can pass through to you.
  • Take caution when approaching fallen trees, which could have power lines caught in them.
  • Remember that water can conduct electricity. If you see a line down in a puddle or flooded area, avoid contact with the water to prevent risk of shock.
  • Make safety your top priority when you see a downed wire. Call 911 or RIE at 1-855-743-1101 to report it immediately and keep yourself and others away from the scene.

Gas issues should also be reported to  the RIE 24-hour gas emergency number for Rhode Island: 1-800-640-1595.

Categories: News, Rhode Island

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