Severe storms with strong winds moved across Ohio this weekend, bringing down trees and knocking out power to more than 20,700 AEP Ohio customers at the peak. More than 1,000 tree, line and support personnel from over 40 service centers across the state responded as soon as it was safe to do so and worked quickly to clear downed trees, repair damaged equipment and restore power.
The first wave of storms on Saturday, March 15, caused outages for about 4,200 customers, mostly in the western and southern parts of our service territory. A second round of storms and damaging wind gusts rolled through on Sunday, March 16, affecting more than 20,700 customers across the eastern half of the state down to the southernmost parts of our service territory. Crews worked around the clock until power was restored to all customers.
AEP Ohio reminds customers to be cautious when cleaning up storm debris. Tree limbs, leaves and other objects moved by the wind can hide downed lines. All downed lines can be dangerous. Stay as far away as possible from them and anything they may be touching. Do not attempt to remove limbs or debris within 10 feet of a power line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does AEP Ohio do anything to help reduce power outages ahead of high winds?
One of the biggest causes of outages due to high winds is fallen trees and branches that bring down power lines. AEP Ohio has a comprehensive, year-round tree maintenance program to help keep trees and brush away from power lines and equipment. When storms bring down trees, our foresters are among the first responders as they work to safely clear trees from our lines and equipment and move to the next location as quickly as possible to allow our line crews to restore power.
Why can’t AEP Ohio put electric lines underground to avoid outages from wind damage?
Many factors go into determining whether power lines are buried. There are pros and cons to both overhead and underground lines. While overhead lines are more vulnerable to damage from weather elements, issues with underground lines often take longer to find and repair — resulting in extended power outages compared to overhead lines. It's our goal to find the best solution to provide reliable power to the communities we serve.
Any damage at 701 south Lincoln Avenue Bridgeport Ohio
Hi Jessie. Please help us understand a little better what you’re asking. If you have questions about your account, you can reach out to our Customer Solutions team by sending them a direct message on Facebook or X or calling 800-672-2231. We are unable to share information about a specific address belonging to someone else.
Thank you for all your hard work.
Could I please get on the budget?
Linda Schneck
Hi Linda, please reach out to our Customer Solutions team via a direct message on Facebook or X or give them a call at 800-672-2231. They can help you get signed up for the budget plan.