Weekend storms cause widespread power outages

HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Strong, sudden storms swept through northern Georgia and western North Carolina over the weekend, leaving approximately ten thousand Blue Mountain Electric Membership Corporation (BRMEMC) customers temporarily without electricity. Strong winds downed trees and power lines, and in some instances, severed the poles themselves. On the evening of Sunday, June 24, a reported 125 customers were without electricity in Towns County. The following morning, BRMEMC announced that 28 outages remained, affecting 503 customers, mainly in Cherokee County, North Carolina. As of noon on Monday, June 25, the amount of affected customers was reduced to 187.

Saturday and Sunday’s storms arrived in near unison, with CodeRED weather warnings dispatched to Towns County residents shortly before 3:30 p.m. both days. An emergency email alert warned of possible 60 mile-per-hour winds and quarter-size hail. In the aftermath, an overturned boat dock was reported on Lake Chatuge, and tree debris littered roadways throughout the county. While the weekend storms generated more wind than lightning, each weather event differs.

Summer storms in the mountains can trigger flash flooding, lightning, hail, and other dangers, with storm frequency increasing as the warmer months progress. “If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to pose an immediate threat,” said Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region V Acting Administrator Janet M. Odeshoo, “Seek shelter as quickly as possible. There is no place outside that is safe when a thunderstorm is in the area.”

Sheltering in structures such as homes, offices, and schools is advised. FEMA cautions to remain away from windows, doors, and any unit that conducts electricity, such as landline phones, wiring, plumbing, and anything connected to such. If caught outdoors during severe weather, never seek shelter under a tree, tower, or electrical pole as lightning tends to strike taller objects. Evacuate from elevated areas such as hills or peaks, and move away from bodies of water. Avoid objects that conduct electricity, including wires and fences. Never lie flat on the ground. Lightning can strike from up to 10 miles away. If thunder is heard, danger is near.

Strong wind gusts can down trees and power lines, and cause unsecured objects to project, causing damage. Having emergency supply kits on hand is advised in the event of a substantial time lapse between the outage and restored power. A list of recommended items can be found at ready,gov

Feature Photo Credit: BRMEMC