Scotch Plains Weather Alert - January 9, 2024
In preparation of today’s storm, we would like to remind residents to use 911 for life threatening emergencies only. Power outages should be reported to the local power company and not to 911. Pelase stay home during the storm, do not approach any downed wires, and not to drive into any flooded roads.
The storm that is coming Today into Wednesday is going to bring Scotch Plains warmer temperatures, rain potential of up to 4 inches and sustained winds of 25-30 MPH and gusts up to 50 MPH. There is a strong chance of power lines being knocked down as well as trees. Route 22 West, as well as the usual streets in Scotch Plains prone to water, will experience flash flooding. If you see water across the road in front of you: "TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN". Make sure your generators are ready and your sump pumps are operating.
Preparing for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds
After last weekend’s wintry weather, PSE&G is once again prepared for another storm that is forecasted to bring gusty winds and heavy rain throughout our service area this week. The weather system could bring rainfall of more than three inches in certain areas and flooding is anticipated. Hazardous wind gusts (40-60 mph) are also expected which could potentially topple trees, bring down branches on wires and cause outages. We encourage you to take the time now to prepare.
PSE&G is committed to bringing you safe and reliable service, regardless of extreme weather conditions. We prepare year-round for extreme weather to maintain reliable service for our customers. Eleven years after Superstorm Sandy raged across the East Coast, PSE&G continues to work to protect customers’ utility service from the damaging impact of extreme weather by strengthening and upgrading our infrastructure. Our investments in new infrastructure have helped us remain one of the nation’s most reliable utility companies.
We are closely monitoring this latest weather front. We have crews scheduled 24/7 who will work to safely restore any outages as quickly as conditions will allow.
Be safe:
- Secure outdoor furniture, decorations and objects. These items could pose a risk during storms as strong winds can turn them into projectiles, endangering people, property and even interrupting power supply.
- Review our storm preparation tips and flood safety tips to learn how to be safe before, during and after a storm.
- Stay away from downed wires; they should always be considered live. Stay at least 30 feet away from downed lines. Don’t go near the pole or anything touching the line, and don't drive over downed wires. Immediately contact PSE&G at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734), or through our mobile app or website, to report downed wires and dial 911 if an immediate hazard exists.
- Downed wires can potentially be hidden in standing water. Be aware that electric current passes easily through water, so if you encounter large pools of standing water, stop, back up, and choose another path.
- To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, do not run any gasoline-powered generators in a garage or other enclosed space.
- If you (or a member of your household) rely on electricity to operate life-sustaining equipment, please notify PSE&G. To learn more, visit pseg.com/life or call 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).