Citizens Electric restoration efforts remain strong

Perryville, MO – Many electric cooperatives including Citizens Electric were impacted by a devastating line of tornadoes damaging homes and businesses in a tornadic swath from Rolla to the Arkansas border. Initial reports indicate there were up to 19 tornadoes of varying strengths that impacted 25 counties in the state, according to state officials.

Citizens Electric Corporation has restored power to more than 3,000 members since early Friday, March 14 when high winds moved through the service territory. Nearly 100 men are on the ground making significant progress.

As the storm passed through the Citizens Electric service territory during the night Friday, March 14, damage occurred on a transmission line on the eastern side of Perryville causing the Crosstown and Altenburg substations to lose power leaving nearly 1,500 members in the dark.  A few hours later, CEC crews were able to isolate the damaged portion of the transmission system and restore power to both substations. 

“The quick restoration of two substations in eastern Perry County highlight the benefits of having a looped transmission system, a system that has multiple paths for power flow.  If the system serving eastern Perry County had not been looped, those members would still be without power, and likely for multiple days, while we worked to make repairs on the transmission line,” said Jason Cates, CEO.

Repairs on the transmission line started early Saturday.

To report a power outage, call 1-877-876-3511. We want to express our appreciation for your patience and understanding during this event. Rest assured we will be working as quickly and safely as conditions allow to restore power.   

About Citizens Electric Corporation                                                         

Citizens Electric Corporation, established in 1947, is a not-for-profit corporation operating as an electric cooperative located in Perryville, Missouri.  Citizens Electric services over 27,000 members in Perry County, Ste. Genevieve County and portions of Cape Girardeau, Bollinger, Jefferson, and St. Francois County.  For more information, visit www.cecmo.com or follow Citizens Electric on Facebook and LinkedIn.