Thousands Without Power as Christmas Nears

   I was talking to Mom in NC this morning where its downright hot in the mid 70s...a far cry from here in NNY where temperatures are below freezing and a sheet of ice encases many communities, denying power and mobility a scant three days before Christmas.
   While the rain has stopped the dangers remain with falling limbs, downed lines and tens of thousands of county residents in darkness without heat.
   

Morning Briefing at the County Building

 

     By mid morning in the City about four in ten Grid customers were without power with a utility spokesman saying he cannot commit to a timetable for return of power, but hopes to have many back on today.

     This is a Sunday, but not a normal one as pre holiday activities and shopping mean roads will be busy, so its important to avoid side roads that may be blocked and use good judgment.

      There are no reported fatalities or serious injuries linked to the storm and the county emergency czar Joe Plummer says preparation ahead of time and new technologies like social media have helped with a better response than previous storms.

Scenes Like This on Cross Street Were Common Sites in City

 

      Mr. Plummer also said the situation was not as dire as 1998 when the electric grid was decimated. Today's damage is significant , but more localized.

      County Legislature Chair Carolyn Fitzpatrick said the county's motto has been "lean forward" in dealing with the storm's approach and impact.

      The Salvation Army on State Street called me to say they are open with power for those needing a place to go.  City fire and public works crews are busy blocking off problem streets, while in the towns, local fire halls are being manned for those in need.

      The weather forcast is mixed with more precipitation possible and colder temperatures on the way, meaning those in the dark will have an old fashioned Christmas for sure.. However, for most, the worst should be over by Monday morning, officials say.