Hazardous Weather Conditions

WECNotices

NOTICE TO WEC MEMBERS

Washington Electric Cooperative is notifying members of hazardous weather conditions beginning Wednesday, February 16, 2022 and lasting through Friday, February 18, 2022. CLICK HERE for guidance on how to prepare for power outages.

Call 911 for life threatening emergencies. If you need other help, call 211 to find any emergency resource you need: fuel, food, shelter, mental health, and anything else. Your safety is the priority.

High Winds: Wind gusts as high as 40 to 60 mph begin Wednesday morning, then fall by mid-afternoon/evening. These high winds have the potential to cause power outages throughout WEC territory. Remember: If you see lines down, do not touch or approach them. They could still be energized. Please report any downed wires or trees by calling us immediately at 802-223-5245 or 1-800-932-5245.

Freezing Rain/Ice & Travel Conditions: Beginning Thursday morning, expect moderate rain turning to freezing rain overnight and early Friday morning and, eventually, sleet and light snow. Ice glazing possible. Travel conditions on Friday morning will be hazardous. Use caution if you must travel.

Temperatures & Flooding: Temperatures will rise Thursday into the mid-50s throughout northern Vermont as rain and freezing rain arrive, causing increased snowmelt. This could lead to rising rivers and streams, as well as ice break-up and/or jams. Be aware of possible flooding and dangerous water temperatures.

While WEC has experienced few large-scale outages this winter, members should be prepared for outages this weekend. Have plenty of water, non-perishable food for both you and any pets, warm clothing and blankets, fuel and/or firewood, candles and flashlights, batteries, and any backup power sources ready. Ensure any livestock are warm and secured with food and water. Tie down or stow anything outside that could blow away. If you need to relocate for a couple of days, make those plans now.

  • Call 211 to find any emergency resource you need: food, mental health, fuel, shelter, and anything else. Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
  • If you are in danger of running out of fuel, call the toll-free Emergency Fuel Assistance number: 1-800-479-6151
  • For food, housing, weatherization, and other services, contact your local Community Action Agency: either Capstone (capstonevt.org) or Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA, nekca.org)
  • If you need help paying your WEC bill, call Member Services: 802-223-5245 or 1-800-932-5245

See the National Weather Service for detailed daily forecasts and official weather alerts.

Please be advised that WEC has taken the necessary protection measures within the COVID-19 guidelines to be prepared for outage events.