By Thomas Sellers Jr.
Since about 9:40 a.m., power issues have hit the Memphis area.
The Millington Family YMCA suffered a power outage around that time and homes in the surrounding area were also without power.
Throughout Memphis, many neighborhoods are without electricity and traffic lights are out across the metro (please treat them as a four-way stop).
The cause for all the damage and outages are heavy rain and powerful winds moved that through Memphis and Shelby County Friday this morning, knocking out power to more than 34,000 Memphis Light, Gas and Water customers.
As of 1:30 p.m., more than 17, 000 customers have been restored.
There are 23 repair and 33 tree trimming crews, and 17 troubleshooters in the field identifying damage and working to restore outages as quickly and as safely as possible. During storm restoration, shifts of crews will be working 24/7 until power is restored. More contracted crews will arrive on Saturday, March 4 to assist with restoration efforts.
To receive current updates on storms and outages, customers are encouraged to sign up for text alerts at mlgw.com/alerts. Don’t assume we are aware of your outage. Customers can report outages and get updates on restoration efforts by using MLGW’s app and our My Account feature, or calling 544-6500.
Important MLGW contact information for customers:
• Outage Reporting: 544-6500
• Emergency: 528-4465 (This number should be treated like 911. Gas leaks, electrical lines down.)
• Residential Contact Center: 544-6549
• Online Outage Center: mlgw.com/home/outagecenter
MLGW reminds customers to consider any downed wire to be dangerous and to not touch.
