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Storm & Outage Information

Visit Outage Central to learn about power outages in your area.

Be Prepared:

Before Mother Nature strikes, be prepared for a major storm. Everyone should have some basic supplies on hand to survive for at least three days in the event of an extended power outage. Following are suggested items to keep on hand and easily accessible, although everyone should consider the unique needs of their own family in order to create an emergency kit that will provide for your needs.

• Water: at least one gallon per person, per day for drinking and sanitation. If you have pets, have extra available.
• Food: at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food, focusing on items that can be eaten without being cooked. Don’t forget a hand-operated can opener.
• Flashlights and a supply of fresh batteries.
• A corded telephone. Cordless phones will not work when your power is out.
• A battery-powered radio and/or television. Midwest Energy Cooperative works with regional news media to provide regular updates about major power outages.
• A battery-powered or wind-up clock.
• A first-aid kit and hand sanitizer. Be sure to fill prescriptions and have any needed medical supplies on hand.
• Extra blankets.
• Candles and matches.
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

Storm Safety Tips:

• Stay away from downed power lines and warn others to do the same. Report downed power lines immediately to Midwest Energy Cooperative.
• If a person or object is in contact with a power line, don’t touch the person, object or line. The electric current could flow through you. Call 911 and Midwest Energy Cooperative immediately!
• If your vehicle is in contact with a power line, stay inside the car. Warn others not to touch the car or the power line.
• During an outage, turn off all appliances, including your furnace, air conditioner, water heater and water pump. This will help to avoid a circuit overload when power is restored. Leave on one lamp to know when power is restored.
• Candles may be used as temporary sources of light, but never leave burning candles unattended.
• Keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed. Food will stay frozen for 36 to 48 hours in a fully-loaded freezer if you keep the door closed. A half-full freezer will generally keep food frozen for 24 hours. If it looks like the power outage will be prolonged, prepare a cooler with ice for your freezer items.