Update: 12:30 a.m.

Crews working to restore power to 340 members

All available Southwestern Electric Cooperative crews are working to restore power to 340 members in Bond, Effingham, Fayette, and Madison Counties who lost power after severe storms swept across Southwestern Electric’s service territory.

At present, no estimated time of restoration is available.

10:05 p.m.

Severe Storms Sweep Across Service Territory

About 247 Southwestern Electric members are without power this evening as severe storms sweep across the I-70 corridor, bringing down limbs and power lines. At 10:05 p.m., 30 Bond County, 185 Fayette County, 27 Madison County, and 4 Montgomery County members were without power and 1 member in Shelby County had lost service. 

Crews are on site at several locations, surveying damage and making repairs. 

Strong winds may bring down branches and trees, and snap powerlines and utility poles. Members are cautioned to be alert for sagging or fallen lines, not to drive over downed lines, and to treat every powerline as if it’s energized.

Members who see downed or sagging power lines should stay clear of the area and contact Southwestern Electric Cooperative at (800) 637-8667.

In addition, people clearing away debris after the storm should look for sagging or fallen wires before they begin working.