FRANKLIN COUNTY, Ohio — Thousands of AEP Ohio customers are in the dark as the remnants of Helene, which was once a Category 4 hurricane, make its way through Ohio.
Much of the southern and central part of the state is getting hit with heavy rain and winds. Franklin County has about 15,000 AEP Ohio customers without power as of 5:50 p.m. Other counties with thousands of reported outages include Ross, Pickaway, Hocking and other counties in the southernmost part of Ohio. Click here to see AEP Ohio's outage map.
Helene is bringing gusty winds and heavy rain to central Ohio, something the area has not seen in quite some time.
Models have been consistent at showing 0.50-1.25” of rain in the I-270 loop, with higher amounts across our southern counties. People who live in the northern half of the viewing area will see less rain.
Showers will linger into the weekend, but the winds should not be as strong.
AEP has offered the following tips on how to stay prepared and handle a possible outage:
- Put together an emergency kit that includes non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a radio, first aid kit, medications, portable chargers, extra cash and maps of the surrounding area.
- Keep away from downed wires and report hazards through the AEP Ohio mobile app, call 911 and AEP Ohio at (800) 672-2231.
- Do not attempt to remove tree limbs or debris within 10 feet of a power line.
- Limbs, leaves and other objects moved by the wind and ice build-up could hide downed wires. Investigate your surroundings before trying to clean up any debris.
- Notify AEP Ohio if you’re using a generator. This protects you and our lineworkers as they work to restore power.
- Never operate lanterns, heaters or fuel-fired stoves without proper ventilation.
- Unplug major appliances to protect them when power is restored.
- Refuel heaters, lamps and generators outside and away from any flames or sparks. Wipe up spilled fuel immediately.
- Never burn charcoal indoors — it releases poisonous carbon monoxide.
- For the health and safety of AEP Ohio crews, please stay at least 6 feet away from our employees, vehicles and equipment.
Doppler 10 Weather Resources
Download the 10TV News app to receive breaking news alerts