PITTSBURGH — Duquesne Light Company (DLC) is encouraging customers to be safe and prepare for high winds beginning this afternoon until late tonight. The National Weather Service is warning southwestern Pennsylvania of severe weather with heavy rain and wind gusts potentially reaching over 55 mph. In addition to strong winds, the area could also see hail and heavy rain, resulting in flash flooding. Strong winds can damage electrical equipment and result in potential power outages.

 

DLC has increased staffing to ensure that any outages are responded to safely and as quickly as possible. Because of potentially hazardous conditions, some response times may be delayed during the weather event.

 

In light of this forecast, DLC is reminding customers to:

• Call 9-1-1 for any emergency medical issues that could be impacted by an outage.
• Avoid downed power lines and give ample space to lineworkers.
• Avoid walking under or around trees that have a visible trunk or dangling limbs.
• Review DLC’s storm plan on what to do before, during and after an outage, including:
  • Checking emergency supply kits to ensure that essential items (batteries, battery-powered radio, first-aid kit, medication, flashlights, water, blankets, etc.) are within reach.
  • Charging all important electronic devices such as cell phones.
  • Checking medications that require refrigeration and may be affected by a prolonged outage.
  • Having an alternate source of heating available (along with extra fuel), including wood for wood-burning stoves and fireplaces.

 

In the event of an outage, the quickest way to report it is through DuquesneLight.com or the free DLC Mobile app. Those without internet access can call 888-393-7000. Customers should keep in mind that crews are aware of outages as soon as they are reported, even if they do not immediately appear on DLC’s outage map.

 

Customers can follow DLC on Twitter/X (@DuquesneLight) and Facebook (@DuquesneLight) for additional updates.