Entergy crews are beginning to assess the damage and restore power to those customers in Southeast Louisiana impacted by Hurricane Zeta.
The Category 2 storm made landfall in Louisiana on Wednesday afternoon with winds near 110 mph.
Entergy says that Zeta's high winds causes extensive damage to their power grid and, at its peak, knocked out power to approximately 480,000 customers in the state.
According to the company, crews have restored power to over 80,000 customers as of 9 a.m. Thursday, October 29.
A storm team of approximately 5,000 workers have been assembled to respond to outages, including making repairs to downed poles, wires and other electrical equipment.
They say that road and flood-gate closures, flooding and other accessibility challenges due to the storm could affect the ability of those crews to reach some areas and delay restoration in communities Entergy serves.
While damage assessments remain underway, Entergy says that crews will prioritize restoring power to critical infrastructure as well as putting together a plan to restore power to the largest number of customers the fastest. Customers will receive estimated times of restoration as damage assessments are complete.
"We know any time without power is too long,” said John Hawkins, Entergy’s vice president of distribution operations in Louisiana. “Our crews and contractors are assessing damages and working to restore power safely and as quickly as possible. If you are in an area affected by Hurricane Zeta, please remain safe as we work to bring services back to our communities. Please stay away from all downed power lines and electric equipment, and if you’re using a generator, be sure to use it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.”
Customers are being reminded to avoid downed power lines and electric equipment and use caution when clearing debris from around their homes or businesses.
For safety tips, including proper generator use, visit entergynewsroom.com/storm-center/safety/.
Entergy is also urging customers to keep streets open for local emergency vehicles and workers. Additionally, crews will continue to practice social distancing and Entergy asks that customers do the same and stay away from work zones.
Customers needing assistance should call 1-800-ENTERGY.
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