As you may know, there is a forecasted line of severe storms to cross the state today, with winds up to 70-80 mph in some areas, from this afternoon near Jefferson City to evening for St. Louis. These storms will not be over any location for very long.
The primary threat from these thunderstorms will be significant wind damage with gusts over 80 mph in some areas. Strong tornadoes (EF2+) along with large hail are also possible in some areas. Check local weather for updates.
Be assured that Ameren Missouri will have emergency responders and crews prepared in advance of the storm.
For Municipal Leaders/Community Stakeholders:
For faster service, encourage customers to report outages directly to Ameren Missouri either online at https://www.ameren.com/outage-center/main, via phone at 800.552.7583, or sign up for alerts and check the status of their restoration at Ameren.com. Customers can text REG to AMEREN (263736) to start.
Customers should share exact addresses and details (downed trees, limbs, or live wires, etc.) to help our crews restore power.
Visit our Outage Map for up-to-date information. Contact your Ameren Representative if you need requests escalated for critical customers, critical buildings, and/or warming/cooling centers.
We encourage you to share the following information with your constituencies and across your respective communication channels.
For Customers:
WHAT CUSTOMERS CAN DO
- Customers should report any downed power lines to the Ameren Missouri customer line: 800.552.7583.
- To ensure we can provide you with the latest outage update, we must have your correct phone number or email address. Please create or log in to your Ameren account online to ensure your contact information is correct.
- Customers can check the status of their restoration at Ameren.com or download the free Ameren app for updates as they become available. Sign up for alerts. Text REG to AMEREN (263736) to start, or visit Ameren.com/Alerts.
- When reporting an outage, please use the phone number associated with the account. Entering a number that is not associated with the account will create an error message.
- Customers can follow Ameren Missouri on Facebook and Twitter to get the latest information on what’s happening with restoration efforts.
- Be aware of scammers asking for payment to restore your utility service. If something feels off, hang up or close the door and call us. If you have questions about your account balance, please call Ameren directly. We are here to help.
- Allow electric company workers and contractors to make repairs. They follow strict safety guidelines, so please keep your distance to allow them to complete their work.
SEVERE SAFETY TIPS
- Avoid going outside and be aware of downed lines and poles if you must be outdoors.
- Keep trees trimmed to prevent limbs and branches from falling on power lines.
- Be sure to check on elderly and disabled friends and neighbors.
- Prepare an emergency kit with supplies (flashlights, radios, batteries, non-perishable foods, water, medicines, blankets, warm clothes, etc.) to use in the event of a storm.
- If you do lose power during a storm, remember the following:
- Turn off lights and unplug electronic or large appliances to prevent damage and overloading circuits once the power is restored.
- Keep faucets on at a drip to prevent pipes from freezing (if in cold temperatures).
- Dress warm and in layers (if in cold temperatures).
- Close doors to unused rooms in the house.
- Be cautious when using alternative heat sources, follow manufacture safety instructions, and keep rooms properly ventilated.
- Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) for electrical outlets can help prevent injuries and electrocutions when installed in areas that may be affected by melting snow or ice. You can also purchase portable GFCIs for your emergency supply kits.
- Keep phones and electronics charged when storms are in the forecast.
- Follow all recommended precautions if using a personal generator. Never use a generator inside your home, garage, crawl space, other enclosed areas, or anywhere exhaust fumes can enter enclosed spaces. Never connect a generator to your home’s circuits. Plug appliances directly into the generator.
HOW POWER IS RESTORED AFTER A STORM
- While you may not see personnel working in your neighborhood, the energy grid is heavily interconnected, and crews are working throughout the system to restore power safely and as efficiently as possible.
- When prioritizing restoration work, Ameren Missouri works to restore power to equipment that serves the greatest number of customers and to critical facilities.
- Learn more about how we restore power:Power Restoration – Ameren.com
We look forward to continuing to serve you and our customers through rain or shine, sleet or snow.
Sincerely,
Kelly Smith
Regional Account Executive
Ameren Missouri