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Duquesne Light Company Preparing for Severe Weather and Extreme Heat
Potentially strong storms and dangerous heat could lead to power outages
PITTSBURGH — Duquesne Light Company (DLC) is preparing for potentially severe weather that’s expected to impact the region starting the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 2, through Friday, Sept. 4. The National Weather Service is forecasting thunderstorms capable of producing hail and damaging winds. In addition, a heat advisory is currently in effect, with heat index values exceeding 100 degrees.
Strong storms combined with extreme heat can result in downed trees, poles and wires, leading to potential power outages. DLC has increased staffing to safely respond to any service disruptions as quickly as possible.
Before severe weather hits, it’s important to be prepared. Some recommended steps include:
- Fully charging cell phones and other necessary electronics ahead of time.
- Maintaining an emergency preparedness kit, including water bottles, nonperishable food, first-aid supplies, flashlights and a battery-powered radio.
- With higher temperatures, drinking plenty of water and having ice handy for cooling packs.
- Signing up for outage notifications through your DLC account.
In the event of an outage:
- Avoid opening refrigerator and freezer doors. Food will stay frozen in a fully loaded freezer for 36-48 hours if the door remains closed.
- Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for emergency lighting. Avoid using candles or other potential fire hazards.
- Seek a location with air conditioning if possible. The city of Pittsburgh has opened five cooling centers today, Sept. 2, through Thursday, Sept. 3. Residents outside of city limits can contact their local municipality for information on nearby cooling centers.
Always call 9-1-1 for any emergency medical issues that could be impacted by an outage. Because of the intense heat, DLC also advises checking on elderly family members, friends and neighbors who live alone.
Reporting Outages
Outages can be reported on DuquesneLight.com or through DLC’s free mobile app. Those without internet access can call 888-393-7100.
