MLEC Continues Restoration Efforts as Ice Storm Damage Remains Widespread

14,000 members remain without power

Meriwether Lewis crews continued restoration efforts today across the service area as ice-related damage remains widespread and unpredictable. Throughout the day, power was restored in multiple locations only to be lost again as additional trees and limbs fell. As of this update, an estimated 14,000 members are currently without power.

Most outages remain concentrated in Hickman, Lewis, and Perry counties, where damage is extensive and access continues to be limited by fallen trees and hazardous road conditions. MLEC offices will be closed to the public on Tuesday, January 27 to focus on restoration efforts. For members reporting outages, please call the MLEC after-hours outage number at 1-888-879-6038.

Members should continue to prepare for extended outages. Ice storms create system-wide damage, and restoration will take time as crews work safely. MLEC currently has approximately 150 additional mutual aid workers assisting with restoration efforts. These include a combination of lineworkers and right-of-way crews from Service Electric, Holston Electric, North Georgia EMC and Trees, Inc.

MLEC understands that many members are approaching 48 hours without power. We know this is difficult, especially with cold temperatures, and we want members to prioritize their safety. Members are encouraged to contact their local Emergency Management Agency (EMA) for information about warming shelters or reach out to neighbors, friends, or family members who may have safe warming options available.

As a safety reminder, please stay clear of downed power lines and give crews the space they need to work safely. If travel is necessary, use extreme caution as road conditions remain hazardous in many areas.

MLEC also wants to extend sincere thanks to emergency responders, local officials, and volunteers who are supporting our communities during this event. Their efforts, alongside ours, are making a meaningful difference for those affected.

“We appreciate the patience, understanding, and resilience of our members,” President and CEO Keith Carnahan said. “Our crews alongside mutual aid are pushing as hard as conditions allow, working long hours in dangerous environments with the goal of restoring power safely to our communities as quickly as possible.”

A more detailed system-wide update will be shared Tuesday morning as damage assessments continue.

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