First Electric Cooperative Continues Restoration Efforts

First Electric crews continue to work to restore power to those affected by the severe thunderstorms and tornados that have pummeled Arkansas since late Monday evening.   Approximately 9,400 power outages remain, down from a peak of 28,000. More than 5,800 of the remaining outages are in Saline County.

 “Yesterday’s round of severe weather forced our crews to pause restoration efforts,” said Don Crabbe, president and chief executive officer for First Electric.  “Once the weather conditions stabilized, efforts to reestablish service to members resumed.”

 In addition to internal crews and personnel, First Electric has deployed right-of-way and construction crews from Arkansas Electric Cooperative, Inc. and other contractors.

 “While electric service was restored to many impacted members yesterday, the additional severe weather resulted in additional outages,” he said. “We will continue to execute our restoration plan today as additional crews are deployed.”

 First Electric anticipates restoration of service to members that can accept service late this evening. Outages in the Hot Springs Village area and other parts of Saline County may not be restored until Thursday due to the extent of the area’s damage.

 “We appreciate the continued patience of our members, and their concern for the safety of our crews that are working in these conditions,” said Crabbe.  “Hopefully, our work will not be hampered by additional severe weather conditions.”

 Current outages (above 100) by county at this time:

  • 5,800 in Saline County
  • 1,200 in Lonoke County
  • 1,300 in White County
  • 150 in Perry County
  • 230 in Prairie County
  • 260 in Pulaski County
  • 250 in Cleburne County

 First Electric Cooperative encourages everyone to treat all downed power lines and poles as if they are energized and to notify the utility company and local law enforcement officials as soon as possible. 

 First Electric Cooperative Members can report power outages by calling toll-free to 1-888-827-3322.

 First Electric Cooperative serves more than 86,000 members throughout parts of 17 counties in central and southeast Arkansas with full service offices in Benton, Heber Springs, Jacksonville, Perryville and Stuttgart.