UDWI CEO, Doug Childs, Provides Update on Storm Restoration

From UDWI CEO Doug Childs:

“First and foremost, we share in your frustration and getting power restored is the most important issue facing us all. This storm produced straight line, 80-mph winds, similar to hurricane force winds, which resulted in some of the worst damage we’ve experienced in decades. 

We have 26 crews actively working to repair the hundreds of areas that are damaged. The number of people working on this outage is the most ever deployed in our territory and includes our entire team and all line crews, five neighboring cooperatives, two additional contractors and dedicated tree trimming crews. Crews are working 16-18 hours per day and will continue to do so until everyone is restored.

There is often no quick way to restore power, especially with the amount of broken poles, completely severed lines and debris we are facing.  We understand that everyone’s patience is wearing thin, and we realize the incredible inconvenience that you are weathering. Please know that repairs must be done methodically and safely, and we are working as quickly as we can.

We believe we will make significant progress today, but please be aware that we expect restoration and repair efforts to continue through Friday, June 28. 

We will continue to provide updates on our social media page and website. Please stay safe and know that we are sending help your way.”