Nishnabotna Valley REC is preparing for possible widespread outages as this evening’s severe storm sweeps across Iowa.
To prepare, NVREC crews have been scheduled to ensure around-the-clock coverage in the field. Crews will work to restore power as soon as it is safe to do so. High winds will likely hamper their efforts, increasing service restoration times.
While the Iowa Department of Transportation has enacted travel restrictions on oversized and overweight vehicles at noon today, this order will not impact NVREC’s crews or their restoration efforts. However, it does highlight to the severity of the storm.
With wind gusts expected to reach 70 mph, downed trees and power lines are possible throughout the area. Residents should never approach downed powerlines or attempt to drive over them; always assume power lines are energized and dangerous.
Member-consumers who choose to use gas generators during an outage are reminded to do so safely. Never use a generator indoors, to avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning, and never plug a portable generator directly into an electric outlet.
Members can view real-time outage data by visiting www.nvrec.com/outages. Members can report outages online at or on their smart phone through the co-op’s SmartHub service, or by calling (800) 234-5122.
