MONCKS CORNER, S.C. – As of noon today, Santee Cooper went to OpCon 2 alert status. This means a threat to Santee Cooper’s electric system is imminent, but effects are still uncertain. In preparation for Florence, operations at the Pinopolis Lock will also stop at noon tomorrow and remain suspended until further notice.
Santee Cooper is urging customers to prepare for what may be lengthy power outages as Hurricane Florence draws nearer to the coast of South Carolina. If the hurricane hugs the coast and produces sustained tropical-force winds lasting several days, as some models suggest, that could increase outages and delay the start of power restoration work.
“Our crews cannot use bucket trucks, patrol lines by helicopter or perform many other repairs until sustained wind speeds drop below about 35 miles an hour,” said Jim Brogdon, interim president and CEO. “Our equipment is lined up, our vehicles are ready, and our employees will be in place so that we can respond to outages as soon as possible.”
Bridge closures due to high winds could also slow down restoration. Customers can report outages and follow restoration progress at www.santeecooper.com/stormcenter. Customers can also report outages by phone at 1-888-769-7688 and follow updates on our Facebook and Twitter pages or website.
Santee Cooper is South Carolina’s largest power provider, the largest Green Power generator and the ultimate source of electricity for 2 million people across the state. Through its low-cost, reliable and environmentally responsible electricity and water services, and through innovative partnerships and initiatives that attract and retain industry and jobs, Santee Cooper powers South Carolina. To learn more, visit www.santeecooper.com.
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