To report an outage, call
1-800-448-2383
Blue Ridge Energy Prepares for Weekend Winter Storm, Encourages Member Readiness
With a winter storm forecast to move into the region this weekend, Blue Ridge Energy is closely monitoring conditions and making final preparations while encouraging members to take steps now in case power outages occur.
Predictions are for snow and high winds to move through the cooperative’s service area as early as later today through Saturday and Sunday. Predicted wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour in mountain counties could present the most threat for power outages. Negative temperatures due to wind chill are also in the forecast.
“Our crews and all employees are prepared and ready to respond, even in severe weather conditions,” said Renee Walker, director of public relations for Blue Ridge Energy. Crews are on high alert throughout the weekend should outages occur, she added.
Blue Ridge Energy encourages members to be prepared, particularly those who may need extra assistance in the event of outages.
“If you have neighbors, friends or loved ones who live alone or rely on electricity for medical needs, this is a good time to check in and make sure a backup plan is in place,” Walker said.
Member Preparedness Tips
Report Outages
- Call PowerLine at 1-800-448-2383
- Text OUT to 70216 (mobile number must be associated with the account)
- Use the Blue Ridge Energy mobile app
Downed Power Lines
High winds can impact trees outside the rights of way falling into power lines. Downed power lines can still be energized and therefore dangerous or even deadly! If you see a downed line, never touch it or go near it! You should also stay far away from objects in contact with a downed line. Report them immediately to Blue Ridge Energy at 1-800-451-5474 and notify 911.
Medical Needs
Members who rely on electric-powered medical equipment should arrange backup power, relocation plans, or alternative accommodations ahead of time. During widespread outages, repairs must begin at transmission and substations before power can safely flow to homes. Life-threatening emergencies should be reported by calling 911.
Generator Safety
- Operate generators outdoors only, at least 20 feet from buildings and away from doors and windows
- Avoid standing water
- Use a professionally installed transfer switch to prevent backfeeding, which can endanger line technicians
Protect Pipes from Freezing
- Let faucets drip during extreme cold
- Open cabinet doors to improve air circulation
- Seal air leaks with caulk or insulation
- Keep garage doors closed
- Disconnect garden hoses and insulate outdoor faucets
- For homes on wells: shut off the main water valve overnight and open faucets to drain pipes when freezing temperatures are expected
Outage Status
View current outage information using the live outage map at BlueRidgeEnergy.com or through the mobile app.
Stay Informed
Blue Ridge Energy will share storm updates and restoration information on social media at:
- Facebook: facebook.com/blueridgeenergy
- Instagram: instagram.com/blueridgeenergy
- X (Twitter): twitter.com/blueridgeemc
Please note: Outages cannot be reported via social media and must be submitted through official reporting channels.
Blue Ridge Energy serves approximately 80,000 members across Caldwell, Watauga, Ashe, Alleghany and parts of Wilkes, Avery and Alexander counties. Its propane and fuels subsidiary serves customers throughout the cooperative’s service area and in Burke, Catawba and Grayson County, Virginia. Learn more at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.