Company readying equipment and crews in advance of storm

BOSTON, Mass. (December 17, 2023) – In advance of the heavy rain and strong winds forecasted for Massachusetts Sunday night through Monday, Eversource continues to closely monitor multiple forecasts and is ready to respond to any potential issues with the electric system. The energy company is positioning line and tree crews across the commonwealth as well as bringing in additional out-of-state crews to respond to any damage or outages caused by the weather. With the recent rainfall in Massachusetts and additional potential heavy rains from this storm, flooding concerns and potential underground issues could be elevated, and Eversource is also taking steps to proactively prepare the underground system. The energy company also sent additional line and tree crews to Martha’s Vineyard with the potential for damaging winds along the Cape and Islands. 

“The ground is already highly saturated from recent rainfall and tree branches weakened, so the heavy rain and strong winds in the forecast have even greater potential to bring down trees and limbs onto electric lines and equipment causing outages,” said Eversource President of Regional Electric Operations Craig Hallstrom. “With elevated flooding concerns, we are working today to prepare our underground system for possible issues, and we have extra crews and equipment staged around the state so they’re ready to restore power as soon as it’s safe to do so.”

Customers are encouraged to also prepare for the storm by assembling or restocking a storm kit which should include essentials like flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishable foods, pet food, any needed medications and other essentials. In addition, make sure cell phones and devices are fully charged, create an emergency plan with family members and prepare to check on elderly neighbors and friends.

Eversource reminds customers to always stay clear of downed wires and to report them immediately to 9-1-1. Be sure to report any outage online, or by calling 800-592-2000 in Eastern MA and 877-659-6326 in Western MA. Customers who signed up for the company’s two-way texting feature can send a text to report an outage and receive outage updates as they happen.

Additional preparedness tips can be found at the Storm Preparedness section on our website.