Excelsior EMC Faces Historic Power Outage Due to Hurricane Helene

Excelsior EMC and several neighboring cooperatives in Georgia are grappling with extensive power outages following the unforeseen path of Hurricane Helene, which struck the region with unprecedented force. The hurricane impacted the eastern part of Georgia late Thursday night, leading to a complete blackout in Excelsior EMC’s service area, alongside significant outages reported by surrounding cooperatives.

According to Excelsior EMC, this storm could be the most severe in its history, considering the widespread damage it has caused. The utility reported that 100% of its service territory is currently without electricity, and initial assessments reveal substantial destruction across the network. Recovery teams are on the ground, working under challenging conditions to restore power as swiftly as possible.

“The extent of the damage means that some members may be without power for several days, maybe longer,” noted Bronson Bragdon, the Director of Marketing and Communications for Excelsior EMC. Bragdon assured that every available resource and crew is mobilized to tackle the crisis, emphasizing that safety remains the top priority for both personnel and residents.

Neighboring areas are similarly affected, with power outages reported at or nearing totality in many places. Despite the extensive mobilization of additional crews and resources, the utility company warns that the road to full electricity restoration is fraught with complications and could extend for an indefinite period. Members of the community are urged to remain patient and to extend their support as the restoration efforts progress.

Updates on the power restoration efforts will be communicated through Excelsior EMC’s social media platforms and collaboration with local news outlets. Residents are advised to monitor these channels for the latest developments and safety advisories.

In a related situation in the Midwest, Hurricane Helene’s effects have caused power cuts affecting over 100,000 individuals, particularly in Northern Kentucky, where cities like Florence, Union, and Fort Mitchell have experienced significant outages.