Wake Forest – Wake Electric is closely monitoring the severe weather and is prepared to respond should the system result in power outages across the cooperative’s service area.

The cooperative is tracking the storm system expected to impact the region today, which is forecast to bring high winds with the potential for tornadoes and even hail. High winds are a leading cause of power outages, as they can break tree limbs or uproot trees that fall into power lines. Wind can also cause branches to make contact with lines, interrupting service or damaging equipment. Crews are prepared to respond if outages occur and will work to restore power as safely and quickly as possible.

Wake Electric crews are already staged and prepared for any potential otuages that may occur. Materials have already been gathered, trucks are stocked, and power restoration equipment has been tested to ensure crews are ready to respond quickly and safely if outages occur.

Members are encouraged to prepare now for the possibility of severe weather–related outages .

Steps you can take to prepare now include:

• Assemble an emergency kit with non-perishable food, water, medications, blankets, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies.
• Prepare for outages by charging cell phones and essential devices, gathering important documents and medications, and making alternative shelter plans if you may be significantly impacted by power disruptions.
• Stay informed by enabling emergency alerts on your cell phone to help you make timely decisions for you and your family.
• Verify your contact information with Wake Electric to ensure you receive important updates.
• Opt in to text notifications through SmartHub for timely outage information and restoration updates.

If outages occur, cooperative staff will work as quickly and safely as possible to restore power to all members. Wake Electric members are encouraged to report outages using their SmartHub account or by calling 855.280.1147.

For timely updates, members should ensure their contact information is current in SmartHub, follow Wake Electric on Facebook or X, and visit wemc.com for the latest information.

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Wake Electric is a local, member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative providing reliable, safe, and affordable energy and related services to more than 58,500 members across Durham, Franklin, Granville, Johnston, Nash, Vance, and Wake counties. Founded in 1940, Wake Electric exists to serve its members and strengthen the communities it calls home through continued investment in reliability and innovation, energy education, youth and educator programs, community grants and scholarships, and advocacy on issues that impact our local membership. The cooperative is governed by a nine-member Board of Directors representing geographic districts throughout its service area, with directors elected at-large to rotating three-year terms at the cooperative’s annual meeting. Learn more at wemc.com