NatGrid braces for storm, tells customers to prepare for outages

PROVIDENCE – As the first winter storm of 2014 bears down on Rhode Island, National Grid issued a statement Thursday saying its crews are prepared to handle the power outages likely to result from heavy snow accumulation, high winds and potential flooding.

National Grid advised its customers to stay off the roads while utility crews work to restore outages. Customers can receive text-message alerts and updates on service interruptions by texting the word “STORM” to 64743, and can also follow the storm on their mobile devices using the National Grid mobile app.

Email alerts are available to customers who create an online profile on the National Grid website at www1.nationalgridus.com. National Grid customers who experience outages should call National Grid’s outage line at (800) 465-1212 immediately to expedite restoration.

“It’s a good idea to have a number of working flashlights, at least one battery-operated radio and an extra supply of batteries in your home,” the release advised. “A radio is a good way to stay in touch, as National Grid provides news media with timely information regarding service restoration efforts.”

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AAA Southern New England also issued a winter advisory Thursday, recommending that all drivers prep their cars appropriately for winter. Specifically, drivers should check their car battery, consider installing snow tires, replace worn windshield wipers and drive at reduced speeds during poor weather conditions.

According to an alert from Ocean State Weather and the Providence Emergency Management Agency, the light snowfall expected during the day Thursday will become heavier around 10 p.m. and into early Friday morning, with winds of 20 to 40 mph and temperatures falling to near 10 degrees by morning. The snow will end between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. Friday morning.

For more information or to track the storm’s progress, refer to the following resource agencies:

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