ST. PETERSBURG, FL (352today.com) – Duke Energy says it’s closely monitoring the approach of Tropical Storm Idalia and preparing for potential impacts on Florida in the coming days. The company urges customers to prepare as well.

Duke Energy says it’s making preparations with crews and equipment so they can respond as quickly as possible should Idalia knock out power in Florida.

As of 11:15 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 27, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said the system had strengthened, upgrading its status from depression to tropical storm. The NHC forecast for Idalia shows the potential for strong winds and heavy rain that could result in significant power outages throughout many parts of Florida.

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“Duke Energy prepares for storms 365 days a year while continuing efforts to strengthen the grid,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “Wherever those impacts might be in Florida, our team is ready and we encourage our customers to be prepared, too,” said Seixas.

The company says it has crews and resources located strategically throughout Florida – near areas that will likely be affected – to respond quickly and safely once the storm passes. If additional assistance is needed, Duke Energy will be able to draw on other resources from its service territories in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and the Carolinas.

Safety information
Duke Energy encourages customers to have a plan in place to withstand an extended power outage and provided these tips:

Before the storm

  • Create (or update) an emergency supply kit to save valuable time later. The kit should include everything an individual or family would need for at least two weeks, especially medicines, water, nonperishable foods and other supplies that might be hard to find after a storm hits.
  • Keep a portable radio or TV or a NOAA weather radio on hand to monitor weather forecasts and important information from state and local officials.
  • Charge mobile phones, computers and other electronic devices in advance of storms to stay connected to important safety and response information. Consider purchasing portable chargers and make sure they are fully charged as well.
  • Maintain a plan to move family members – especially those with special needs – to a safe, alternative location in case an extended power outage occurs, or evacuation is required.

After the storm

  • Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs or anything in contact with lines.
  • If a power line falls across a car that you are in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

For more tips on how to prepare, go to Duke Energy’s website.