CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte area is in the path of severe weather that could bring strong winds, rain, even tornadoes. The threats are only going to get worse heading into Monday morning.
Sunday night on The Plaza, a downed tree split completely in half, one branch landed on a house. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
"With this weather event we're anticipating seeing prolonged high winds," Duke Energy spokesperson Meghan Miles said.
The prolonged high winds mean the potential for power outages and downed power lines.
"If you see a downed power line never approach it," Miles said. "Keep in mind a line could be hidden under debris or also use extreme caution."
Miles offers some reminders if your power goes out.
Don't use a generator indoors.
With refrigerators and freezers stocked due to the pandemic, keep doors closed and keep food cold. Miles recommends zero degrees or lower for the freezer, and 40 degrees or lower for refrigerators.
She also recommends getting a separate cooler with ice.
With people staying at home, Miles says they will work hard to get power restored but ask that people be patient and practice social distancing.
"We are wanting to remind customers to keep a safe distance from our crews never enter their work zones and if you do experience a situation where you need to talk with them they will maintain a six-foot distance," Miles said.
Duke Energy customers who experience an outage during the storm can report it by:
- Visiting duke-energy.com on a desktop computer or mobile device
- Texting OUT to 57801 (standard text and data charges may apply)
- Calling the automated outage-reporting system at 800-769-3766 for Duke Energy Carolinas customers and 800-419-6356 for Duke Energy Progress customers
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