SEBASTIAN COUNTY, Ark. — Severe storms in the area have left nearly 10,000 people without power Friday, July 14, according to the Oklahoma Gas and Electric (OG&E).
OG&E says they began inspecting the damage to start the repairs. After the inspection is complete, crews will start to work on restoration. Because the inspection is underway, there is no estimate on how long it will be before power is restored. We will update this article as soon as that estimated time becomes available.
Why are they just now inspecting?
Because the damage cannot be seen well overnight, OG&E crews can best inspect the damage once there is daylight.
What can I do?
OG&E says customers can report outages in the following ways:
- Online at OGE.com/outages.
- Those signed up to myOGEalerts can text the word "OUT" to 32001.
- By calling 1-800-522-6870.
If you have already reported the outage and are waiting for restoration, you can monitor the outages on the OG&E map. While you're waiting, OG&E says it is a good idea to make sure your property does not have anything that can impede crews to access the property. This includes anything that is within your control such as pets.
Safety
OG&E warns customers of downed power lines, saying they may still have electricity and are dangerous. Experts say you should stay away from them and "anything they are touching."
To report a downed power line, you can call 1-800-552-6870.
Upcoming extreme heat
Because some people may not see a restoration for more than a couple of days, this can impact their access to an air-conditioned environment.
OG&E offers these safety tips to help during the heat:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Open windows and curtains to allow airflow.
- Use handheld fans if available.
- Wear lightweight and breathable clothing.
- Check on elderly family members, neighbors and pets to check that they are safe in this heat, too.
- Customers who rely on life-sustaining electrical equipment should contact their doctor for guidance.
- If a customer does not have power or needs access to an air-conditioned environment, you can go to one of OG&E’s Cool Zones. Click here to access that list.
- Customers can also call 2-1-1 for information about food and housing assistance, mental health resources, healthcare programs and other human services.
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