News Release from Amicalola Electric Regarding Power Outages

For immediate release
Stacey Fields, Director of Public Relations
2/18/2015
1:15 pm
Our outages have dropped down to 4843 at this time, down from 5653 earlier today. Of those that are still out, there are 242 different locations affected. These outages are widespread, with the majority covering parts of 4 different counties; Cherokee, Dawson, Lumpkin and Pickens. Our crews are continuing to work in difficult circumstances to restore power and we have reports that at least 25 or more broken poles have been or will have to be replaced.

It is important to remember that our power lines do not always follow a paved road way. We have many lines that go cross country and present even further challenges when the lines are torn down.

We will continue working to restore power through the night, but we will not have all power restored today. Please seek appropriate shelter in your area if you are still without power later this afternoon into evening. We are aware of a warming shelter in Dawson County and a medical emergency shelter in Lumpkin County.

As stated earlier today, we have multiple crews working in the following areas: Cherokee/Pickens/East Dawson: Clayton Community, Lower Bethany, Fate Conn, Lower Burris. The Four Mile area, Chumbley Road, Cowart Road, Kelly Bridge, Yellow Creek and Amicalola Church area. In Dawson and Lumpkin: Cleve Wright/Hwy 136, Goldcreek, Gold Mine to Hwy 183, Amicalola Falls to Gilmer County, Mill Creek & Castleberry on Hwy 9, Auraria 9 South, Philipi, Cavender Creek, Turners Corner and Hwy 52 West near Forest Hills/Jay Bridge.
Until power is restored, it is important to take some precautionary measures:
•Prepare a Ready kit with emergency supplies to keep in both your home and your car
•Make sure you have a way to stay informed about winter weather, such as a NOAA Weather Radio or the Ready Georgia mobile app.
•During cold weather, allow faucets to drip, and open cabinet doors to let heat reach uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.
•If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, stock sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off. You can get more information at http://www.ready.ga.gov.

Thank you for your patience as we work to get the lights back on.