PSEG Ready For Severe Weather (What To Do If Power Goes Out)

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — PSE&G says it is preparing for a storm that is forecasted to bring heavy rain and strong winds to New Jersey on Wednesday – including in Essex County.

Forecasters are warning that there could be severe thunderstorms, flash floods and even tornadoes in some parts of the state. Read More: Bomb Cyclone Brings Thunderstorm, Tornado Risks To NJ

PSE&G, which has a headquarters in Newark, said weather forecasters are predicting 20 to 30 mph winds – enough to topple trees, bring down branches and potentially cause power outages.

In advance of the storm, PSE&G crews are performing system and logistics checks to ensure the availability of critical materials, fuel and other supplies to fulfill our commitment to bring customers safe and reliable service regardless of extreme weather conditions, spokespeople said.

“PSE&G is closely monitoring this weather front and we are prepared for potential impacts,” said John Latka, senior vice president of PSE&G Electric Operations, Transmission and Distribution.

“We have additional crews scheduled and we are ready for restoration once weather conditions permit,” Latka said. “Our crews will work 24/7 to restore all of our customers safely and as quickly as possible.”

Here are some tips and contact numbers to keep in mind if the power goes out, PSE&G said:

REPORTING POWER OUTAGES

• Download the PSE&G mobile app to report outages and receive information on restoration times, crew locations and more.
• Register for MyAlerts to receive text notifications at pseg.com/outagecenter.
• Report an outage and receive status updates by texting OUT to 4PSEG (47734). You can also report your outage through our app or on our website at pseg.com/myaccount.
• Follow PSE&G on Facebook, Instagram (@PSEG) and Twitter (@PSEGdelivers) for updates before, during and after the storm.
• Visit PSE&G’s Outage Map for the latest in outage info, restoration times and crew locations across New Jersey at pseg.com/outagecenter.
• To report an outage by phone, call PSE&G at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).

STORM SAFETY

• Loose decorations entangled with power lines may lead to outages, emphasizing the importance of securing festive displays to ensure both safety and uninterrupted power supply during inclement weather.
• Take extra care when driving in stormy and foggy conditions, as safety is a top priority.
• Downed wires should always be considered “live.” Stay at least 30 feet away from downed lines, and don’t go near the pole or anything touching the line. Immediately contact PSE&G, at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734), via our mobile app or our website, to report downed wires and dial 911 if an immediate hazard exists.
• Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Don't drive over – and don't stand near – downed power lines.
• Downed lines can potentially be hidden in standing water. If you encounter large pools of standing water, stop, back up and choose another path.
• To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, do not run any gasoline-powered generators in a garage or any other enclosed space. More information about carbon monoxide and other gas safety tips are available on our website.
• If you are on life-sustaining medical equipment, ensure that you alert PSE&G in advance and notify your local police and fire departments. For more information, visit www.pseg.com/life.
• Review additional storm safety and preparation tips at https://nj.pseg.com/safetyandreliability/stormsafety.

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