More than 2,000 lose power in Centre County as high winds move through area
Hundreds in Centre County lost power Wednesday night as strong winds moved through the area.
More than 2,000 West Penn Power customers were without power as of 8:50 p.m., according to the utility company’s outages map. Ferguson Township (1,130 customers) and Patton Township (710 customers) were most affected.
With a wind advisory in effect through Thursday morning, emergency responders were called Wednesday night to numerous reports of downed trees and wires across the county, according to dispatch reports. At about 8:15 p.m., Alpha Fire Company was dispatched to the 700 block of Cricklewood Drive in Patton Township for “poles and wires on fire” and power out in the area.
The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory from 1 p.m. Wednesday through 7 a.m. Thursday, with gusts of 45 to 55 mph expected.
“Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle,” the advisory states. “Secure outdoor objects.”
What to do if there’s a power outage
West Penn Power customers can report outages online or text “OUT” to 544487. Call 911 immediately if you see a downed power line and stay at least 30 feet away.
If you experience an outage, keep these safety tips in mind until help arrives:
- Check circuits and fuses to make sure the power is out before reporting.
- Check with your neighbors to see if other homes in your area are affected.
- Keep refrigerators and freezers closed.
- Disconnect appliances and electronics.
