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Winter Storm Causes Widespread Power Outages Across Virginia

A severe winter storm has left thousands without power in Virginia, as AEP crews work around the clock for restoration.

An image of a winter storm-affected street in Virginia, showcasing tree branches weighed down by ice and fallen utility poles. Snow blankets the ground, with residents in the distance clearing their driveways. muted lighting creates a somber yet serene atmosphere, illustrating the aftermath of the storm. This visual ties directly into the post content, emphasizing the severity of weather challenges faced by residents and service providers in restoring power.

Winter Storm Causes Widespread Power Outages Across Virginia

An overnight winter storm has negatively impacted thousands across Virginia, resulting in significant power outages. The storm, referred to as Winter Storm Blair, has left approximately 55,000 customers without service in areas across the state. Appalachian Power spokesperson, George Porter, provided updates on the situation, emphasizing the challenges faced by restoration crews.

Scope of Outages

The outages span a vast area of the Commonwealth, affecting counties from Campbell to Tazewell, and Bland County. Crews from both Virginia and West Virginia are on the ground, totaling around 5,000 workers deployed to assess and mitigate damage. In response to the situation, AEP has called for additional support from crews in six states, including Michigan, Indiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, and Alabama.

The Dangers of Ice

Porter highlighted that the primary hazard during such storms is ice accumulation on power lines and trees. This type of weather creates considerable pressure on infrastructure:

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