Duke Energy Prepares for Hurricane Isaias Impact in the Carolinas
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Duke Energy is readying repair crews and equipment as Hurricane Isaias threatens to bring severe weather and potential power outages to the Carolinas this weekend.
Meteorological forecasts predict the storm will track west of the region, but the eastern edge is expected to deliver heavy rain and strong winds, particularly affecting North Carolina and South Carolina on Saturday and Sunday.
Utility officials highlight that the greatest risk for outages will occur in the western parts of the Carolinas, especially in the North Carolina mountains and South Carolina’s Upstate. The primary concern is strong wind gusts, which can cause trees to topple, down power poles, and complicate initial utility response operations.
“We’re monitoring conditions closely and getting our crews and equipment ready to respond as soon as it’s safe,” said Joe Huff, Duke Energy storm director.
Duke Energy is conducting equipment checks and staging materials for quick deployment to the hardest-hit areas. However, company guidelines limit work in elevated bucket trucks when sustained winds reach 30 mph, potentially delaying early restoration efforts.
Company highlights due to recent grid modernizations—such as burying prone lines underground and integrating self-healing technology—will help reroute power and mitigate widespread blackouts.
Customers in the storm’s projected path are urged to prepare emergency kits with flashlights, batteries, and to fully charge mobile devices. They should also log into their utility accounts to confirm contact preferences for automated text alerts.
Outages can be reported online, via the company’s mobile app, or by calling 800-769-3766.
For more information, stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
