CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Duke Energy estimated one to three million power outages across the Carolinas from Hurricane Florence.
Massive outages, high winds and extreme flooding could push back restoration for weeks.
"This is going to be a Mike Tyson punch," said a spokesperson from the Federal Emergency Management Administration.
A punch powerful enough to knock out power for millions across the Carolinas.
"Hurricane Florence is a massive storm that's going to require a massive response," said Tim Pettit, a Duke Energy spokesperson.
The response is so massive Duke Energy mobilized more than 20,000 people, which is the largest ever group for the company.
"The wind and the relentless rain and the saturated ground conditions, it's really ripe for bringing entire trees down," said Pettit.
All week, Don Gardner with Arbora Tree Care has been pulling 14 hour days.
"It's been non-stop," said Gardner. "I've gotten triple the amount of calls."
Gardner said families are desperate for help.
"I've had customers call me and offer to pay me double," said Gardner.
Duke Energy is anticipating downed trees and millions without power. But even with 20,000 workers, Hurricane Florence may bring extreme challenges.
"In most hurricanes, we worry about our line and equipment being blown down to the ground," said Pettit. "With Hurricane Florence, a lot of our line and equipment will be underwater."
