PSEG prepares for impending storm

PSEG Long Island said in a statement Wednesday that it is closely monitoring the rain expected Thursday into Friday and the potential weather associated with Hurricane Joaquin this weekend.

Torrential rain and high winds associated with Joaquin are possible over the weekend and into next week. The wind gusts and heavy rain associated with storms can be dangerous and cause power outages.

Though meteorologists have not yet been able to determine if Joaquin will make landfall, heavy rains are expected through the weekend and into next week, and flooding may be an issue regardless of whether or not the storm hits the eastern seaboard.

To get ready for the upcoming weather, PSEG said it is performing system checks on critical transmission and distribution equipment as well as performing logistics checks to ensure the availability of critical materials, fuel and other supplies.

“We have activated our storm preparedness plans so we can respond quickly to the approaching weather,” said John O’Connell, vice president of Transmission and Distribution at PSEG Long Island.

PSEG will have personnel on hand to deal with any weather-related outages. Contractors, including tree crews, will be available to assist the utility’s own skilled workforce if necessary. To report downed wires or power outages, customers should call 1-800-490-0075 or online at the company’s website. PSEG said it will continue to update customers on their Facebook and Twitter pages throughout the storm, but not to report outages through social media.

The company has provide the following checklists for safety before and during a storm:

Prepare for a storm:
•Ensure you have a battery-powered radio and fresh batteries.
•Check your supply of flashlights, blankets, nonperishable food and bottled water.
•Create an emergency communications plan
•Develop an evacuation plan
•Charge your cell phones, tablets and other mobile devices.
•Make sure to have cash available. Banks may be closed or inaccessible after a storm.
•Fill up your car’s fuel tank.
•Bring in unsecured objects and furniture from patios and balconies.
•Compile a list of emergency phone numbers, including PSEG Long Island’s Electric Service line 1-800-490-0075.
•Discuss storm and lightning safety with your family.

During a storm:
•Listen to news or radio for emergency updates.
•If you can hear thunder, go indoors and stay inside for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder clap.
•Avoid electrical equipment and telephones. Use battery-powered TVs and radios instead.
•Keep away from windows.
•Do not take a bath, shower or use plumbing.
•If driving, safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends.
•Stay away from downed electrical wires.
•All downed wires should be considered dangerous. To report downed wires or power outages, customers should call PSEG Long Island’s Electric Service line at 1-800-490-0075.