Photo: Digital Vision Vectors
Thousands of households across north central Ohio remain without power as of 9:04 p.m. Friday, as powerful winds continued to tear through the region. Send damage pics to chris@my100fm.com
Windy Conditions Slow Repair Efforts
As of 9:04pm (Friday), According to Richland County EMA Director, Sarah Potes, FirstEnergy has contractors starting at 7am (Saturday), hoping to provide updates by mid-morning Saturday. When gusts exceed 40 mph, crews cannot safely operate bucket trucks, significantly slowing repairs. Storm conditions—including fallen trees and blocked roadways—are also hampering mobility for repair teams.
As of 9:04pm (Friday), AEP is working as quickly as possible and will prioritize restoring power to critical infrastructure such as hospitals, police and fire stations, and water treatment facilities before shifting focus to larger outage areas impacting the most customers.
What to Do If You Encounter a Downed Power Line
Authorities emphasize that all downed power lines should be considered extremely dangerous. Anyone who sees one should immediately contact local police or fire officials or notify their power provider.
Safety tips include:
- Stay far away from any fallen or sagging lines.
- Keep children and pets clear of the area.
- Never try to remove branches or debris from lines.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from downed lines near water.
- Avoid driving over power lines.
- Avoid approaching any vehicle that is touching downed wires.
If a power line falls onto your vehicle, remain inside until emergency crews arrive. If you must exit due to imminent danger, jump clear of the vehicle—landing with both feet—and avoid touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
How to Report a Power Outage
Ohio Edison (FirstEnergy) Customers
- Phone: 1‑888‑LIGHTSS (1‑888‑544‑4877)
- Text: Send “OUT” to 544487
- Website: ohioedison.com
AEP Ohio Customers
- Phone: 1‑800‑672‑2231
- Website: aepohio.com/outages
Firelands Electric Cooperative Customers
- Phone: 1‑800‑533‑8658
- App: SmartHub
Consolidated Electric Cooperative Customers
- Phone: 1‑800‑421‑5863